Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has welcomed Loganair’s proposals when the airline ditches the Flybe franchise and takes to the skies in its own right once again.
The company’ managing director, Jonathan Hinkles, met with the council this week.
He confirmed recent announcements such as flights from Stornoway to Manchester and a campaign to have Air Passenger Duty abolished on flights to the Highlands and Islands.
Loganair is also developing new initiatives such as an improved on-
Soon passengers will have the ability to check in online without the need to print a boarding card.
The airline is also doing away with ID checks at airport check-
It is abolishing charges for credit card bookings and reducing the cost for advanced seat assignment.
Jonathan Hinkles gave a commitment to continue the weather disruption policy introduced over the winter to offer passengers alternative flights if bad weather looks like disrupting flights.
A trial will also start on 1 April this year to bring newspapers to Stornoway arriving early morning Monday to Friday, a move very much welcomed by members of the Comhairle.
Mr Hinkles will also investigate whether a similar trial can be put in place for Benbecula.
Comhairle leader Angus Campbell said: “This was a very positive presentation that highlighted a number of proposals planned by Loganair which should improve the customer experience for air travellers to and from the Islands.”
Mr Campbell “”very much welcomes” the additional Glasgow-
The Comhairle supports Loganair’s campaign to remove Air Departure tax (previously Air Passenger Duty) from routes to the Highlands and Islands from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen which would increase passengers through HIAL airports and keep tourism spend in Scotland.
The council leader said: “Overall, these are very positive developments and I believe there is great potential for further opportunities to work with Loganair.
“They have committed to introduce a Gaelic version booking website and the promotion of island products such as Harris Tweed and island produce could all help to provide an economic stimulus for the Islands.”
Comhairle welcomes Loganair proposals
3 March 2017
Jonathan Hinkles