Regional airline Loganair has extended its contract as Orkney Islands essential air service provider.
The inter-islands air service operates between Kirkwall, Orkney and the islands of Papa Westray, North Ronaldsay, Westray, Sanday, Stronsay and Eday.
Loganair is the current contractor and was successful in its bid to Orkney Islands Council to extend lifeline flights to the island communities for another four years.
The contract through the Public Service Obligation (PSO) framework will see Loganair extend its current contract to 31 March 2029.
Luke Farajallah, Chief Executive Officer, Loganair said: “The inter-island services between Kirkwall and neighbouring islands are vital for the communities and individuals.”
“We’re very pleased that we are continuing to play a part in the provision of these services and that the communities we serve can look forward to remaining connected.”
“Loganair’s ability to provide these lifeline services is entirely due to the experience and hard work of our dedicated team in Kirkwall.”
The airline has continually maintained the lifeline air links connecting the islands of North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Westray, Sanday, Stronsay and Eday with Kirkwall since 1967.
It bases two of its Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft at Kirkwall to fly the routes, carrying around 20,000 customers every year.
It includes the world’s shortest scheduled flight – two minutes between Westray and Papa Westray.
These inter-island flights became bookable online for the first time in 2019.
Mellissa Thomson, North Isles Councillor said: “We’ve been served loyally by Loganair over a number of years and I’m pleased that once again we’ve been able to award the contract to them.”
