LOGANAIR are to offer residents of Barra and Tiree cheaper fares for flights to and from Glasgow in a contract supported by the Scottish Government.
Transport Scotland announced that Loganair have been awarded the contract to operate the Scottish Government supported services from Glasgow to Barra, Tiree and Campbeltown for the next four years. The new contract also ensures a resident’s fare for flights to and from Barra and Tiree (also available to residents of Coll), more flights on the Barra service during busy times, and an extension of the medical seat reservation to the Tiree service.
Loganair’s chief executive Jonathan Hinkles said he was "delighted" that Loganair will remain as the operator of the essential air services to Barra, Campbeltown and Tiree – routes served for nearly 50 years.
He said: "The new contract award represents a huge vote of confidence in the dedicated team of Loganair pilots, engineers and ground staff who deliver these services day in, day out in all weathers across the year.
“I am truly grateful for this recognition by the Scottish Government of their efforts, and for the opportunity to continue our valued relationships with the communities in Barra, Campbeltown and Tiree who depend on these services.”
For the next year, the maximum price for a single journey for Barra will be £91 and £81 for Tiree. Air fares between Barra and Glasgow can currently reach up to £156 and almost £200 from Tiree.
SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, welcomed the news that the flight services have been secured.
Allan said: “These flights are a lifeline to communities in the highlands and islands, many of which I represent, allowing people to reliably travel to the mainland in order to work, visit family and friends, and access crucial services. “I warmly welcome the news that not only are these flights now secured for the next four years but also that we will see an expansion of the services available and cheaper fares for islanders. “The SNP Government is delivering for our rural and island communities, and this announcement will go a long way to ensuring that we continue to build a vibrant and sustainable rural economy that is strong for generations to come.”
