Translate
British charter airline serving leisure and specialty markets.
Founded
2002
Headquarters
Crawley, United Kingdom
Astraeus was a British charter and wet-lease airline founded in 2002 and based at Gatwick Airport in West Sussex, England. The carrier operated passenger and cargo services for a range of clients including tour operators, travel companies, and other airlines requiring additional capacity.
The airline became notable for its diverse operations, including pilgrimage flights to Mecca, leisure charter services to Mediterranean and other holiday destinations, and wet-lease arrangements with other carriers. Astraeus also gained recognition as the airline used by rock band Iron Maiden for their 'Somewhere Back in Time' and 'The Final Frontier' world tours, with vocalist Bruce Dickinson serving as a qualified commercial pilot and flying the aircraft.
Astraeus suspended operations in November 2011 after falling into administration, citing difficult economic conditions and rising fuel costs. The airline's assets were subsequently wound down and it did not resume commercial flights.
Hubs & network
Astraeus primarily operated from London Gatwick Airport as its main base.
Fleet
Astraeus operated a fleet of Boeing 737 and Boeing 757 aircraft during its years of service.
Notable facts
- ›Iron Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson was a qualified commercial pilot who flew for Astraeus.
- ›The airline operated the Iron Maiden 'Ed Force One' aircraft for the band's world tours.
- ›Astraeus conducted Hajj pilgrimage flights to Mecca on behalf of tour operators.
- ›The airline entered administration and ceased operations in November 2011.
- ›Astraeus provided wet-lease services to other airlines in addition to its own charter operations.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
