Zoom Airlines, a low-cost carrier operating between North America and Europe, sought protection from creditors in Canada and the UK yesterday after several of its aircraft were detained for non-payment of leasing and other fees.

Zoom, based in Canada, initially said that it would continue flying. However, it closed down its website later in the day saying that it was ceasing operations and that all its aircraft had been grounded. The airline, which has been in business since 2002, said the action was the result of "acutely difficult" conditions in the airline industry.