Thousands back campaign against "exorbitant" air fares
9 June 2015
A campaign against the "exorbitant" cost of flights to the Western Isles and the Northern Isles has soared to 12,000 likes since it took off on Sunday.
Shetland resident Scott Preston set up the "Islanders against Flybe and Loganair’s
excessive prices’ Facebook page after spotting a Lewis man was quoted £189 for a
one-
One islander pointed out it cost the health board £678 for a patient and escort on a day return from Stornoway to a Glasgow hospital.
Though Loganair say infants travel free, a Lewis mum highlighted she was quoted £167
for her two-
Others complain of forking out the top prices only to find the aircraft half empty.
Flights from Benbecula or Stornoway to Glasgow can cost up to £200 for a single journey.
A Loganair spokesman said: "Loganair offers a tiered fare structure and prices are determined by flight, by day and by season.
“As is the case with most airlines, fares purchased in close proximity to the time of departure are generally more expensive.
“Loganair is one of the few airlines which continues to offer a 33% discount for children as well as concession fares for students and family members visiting a relative in hospital.
“Loganair operates flights from Shetland, Orkney, and the Western Isles at our own commercial risk without any government subsidy.
“All fares are inclusive of third-
“With the Scottish Government’s Air Discount Scheme, island residents benefit from a 40% discount of the fare excluding airport charges and Air Passenger Duty.
“In addition, passengers are entitled to a free 20kg luggage allowance and onboard service.”
Loganair flies island routes under a Flybe franchise.