Loganair’s Scottish Inter-Island Services Contract Extended
Loganair Secures Four-Year Extension for Scottish Inter-Island Services
Loganair, the UK’s largest regional airline, has recently announced a significant contract extension to continue providing essential Scottish inter-island services. This four-year agreement, signed with the Orkney Islands Council, ensures that Loganair will maintain vital air links between several remote islands in the Scottish archipelago, which depend heavily on these routes for their community needs.
Starting on April 1, 2025, and extending until March 31, 2029, Loganair will operate its existing routes under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) framework. These routes connect Kirkwall Airport (KOI) on Orkney with the islands of Westray, Papa Westray, North Ronaldsay, Sanday, Eday, and Stronsay, providing crucial access for residents and visitors alike.
Importance of Inter-Island Services
The agreement is a testament to the importance of inter-island services, particularly the route between Westray and Papa Westray, renowned for being the world’s shortest commercial flight, lasting just about two minutes. Loganair operates this unique route with its fleet of eight-seat Britten Norman Islanders, making travel between these islands quick and efficient.
“Air transport is vital for the communities that rely on these connections for personal and professional travel,” said Luke Farajallah, Chief Executive Officer of Loganair. “We are thrilled to continue playing a role in maintaining these essential services, ensuring that local communities remain connected.”
A Commitment to the Community
Loganair has been serving the Orkney Islands for nearly 60 years, and its dedicated team in Kirkwall has become an integral part of the local community. This contract extension represents a commitment to providing reliable, sustainable, and affordable air travel to Orkney and its surrounding islands.
“2025 will be a monumental year for Orkney, and we do not take the trust placed in us lightly,” Farajallah added. “We look forward to strengthening our relationship with the communities we serve, ensuring they have access to essential services.”
Historical Context of Loganair’s Services
Loganair pioneered inter-island services alongside the Orkney Islands Shipping Company in 1967. The airline has continually upheld these vital air links, connecting North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Westray, Sanday, Stronsay, and Eday with Kirkwall. Each year, Loganair transports approximately 20,000 passengers, fulfilling a crucial role in delivering education, healthcare, mail, and other essential services to the North Isles of Orkney.
Mellissa Thomson, North Isles Councillor and Vice-Chair of the Development and Infrastructure Committee for Orkney Islands Council, emphasized the significance of these air services. “Our inter-isles air service is vital for the communities, providing quick access to mainland Orkney and beyond,” she stated. “We are pleased to award the contract to Loganair once again, recognizing their loyal service over the years.”
Conclusion
Loganair’s commitment to the Orkney Islands is unwavering, and this contract extension reinforces the airline’s role in ensuring that these communities remain connected. For more information about Loganair’s services or to learn about travel options in the Orkney region, visit Loganair’s official website.
We invite readers to share their thoughts on the importance of air services in remote communities or explore related articles on regional travel in Scotland.
