Loganair apologises for downplaying air discount scheme

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 9 Oct, 15:55 · Archive

Loganair has apologised after telling Scottish Parliament that removing the Air Discount Scheme would not affect passenger numbers.

Loganair's head of government and corporate affairs Simon McNamara told the Scottish Parliament's Transport Committee this week that the airline did not believe removing the Air Discount Scheme would reduce passenger numbers. The comments were met with disbelief by committee members and sparked concern among islanders.

Loganair has since apologised and formally corrected the statement. A spokesperson said: "We incorrectly suggested that removing the Air Discount Scheme would not affect Loganair's passenger numbers. ADS makes flying more affordable for island residents, and its removal would reduce the number able to travel."

Shetland MSP Hannah Mary Goodlad disputed the airline's original comments, saying "very worried" constituents had contacted her. She stressed: "The Scottish government has no plans to remove the ADS scheme." Orkney Islands Council called the scheme "essential" for islanders, noting that affordability remains a significant challenge for island residents even with the 50 per cent discount. The scheme applies to Shetland, the Western Isles, Orkney, Colonsay, Islay, Jura, and Caithness and North West Sutherland.

Loganair apologises for downplaying air discount scheme — Image: Press and Journal

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How it is being reported

Orkney Islands Council says Air Discount Scheme is ‘essential’ to islanders as Loganair apologisesThe airline has apologised for comments made to the Scottish Parliament's transport committee minimising the half price scheme for island residents.Press and Journal · 9 Oct, 15:06
POLL: Would you fly with Loganair if the Air Discount Scheme was removed?Loganair sparked concern this week with comments about the Air Discount Scheme (ADS).Shetland Times · 9 Oct, 11:56
Goodlad says Loganair’s ‘very unhelpful’ comments about removal of air discount scheme had ‘worried constituents“Let me confirm - the Scottish government has no plans to remove the ADS scheme.”Shetland Times · 8 Oct, 08:31

In this story: Loganair · Hannah Mary Goodlad · Simon McNamara · Shetland · Orkney · Scottish Parliament · Scottish government

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