McArthur calls for government to show leadership on regional aviation strategy

Responding to calls from Loganair for the development of an island aviation strategy, Orkney's MSP Liam McArthur has called for the Scottish Government to "stop ducking this issue and show leadership".

This follows the reduction of services between Inverness and the Northern and Western Isles by Loganair.

Last month, a cross-party letter was sent to the Transport Secretary Stephen Flynn, which was signed by Mr McArthur and other island representatives, and called for the government to lead efforts in developing a regional air strategy for the Highlands & Islands.

In response, the Cabinet Secretary did not address the request made by island MSPs.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

"As the service reductions between Inverness and the Northern and Western Isles come into effect this week, the impact on NHS patients, health boards, local businesses and the wider community serves as a stark reminder of just how important these lifeline routes are.

"When Loganair came before the Scottish Parliament Transport Committee last month, it was clear that more could and should have been done to engage with affected communities about these changes, a point I have reinforced in my own engagement with the airline.

"While every effort must be made by Loganair and HIAL to reach agreement on early reinstatement of the services that have been cut we also need to see steps taken to reduce the risk of this happening again. Our island communities deserve to have confidence that the network of lifeline routes across the region is resilient, sustainable and affordable.

"That's why I joined MSPs from across all parties in writing to the Transport Secretary, Stephen Flynn last month, urging the Scottish Government to lead efforts in developing a regional air strategy for the Highlands & Islands.

"Sadly, in his response Mr Flynn chose to ignore this request completely. That is simply not good enough. While developing a workable strategy will require the involvement of local authorities, transport partnerships, Loganair and others, it requires to be led by government if it is to have any prospect of being implemented.

"I will be meeting with the Transport Secretary next month and will reinforce with him the need for the Scottish Government to stop ducking this issue and show leadership.  That’s what islanders expect and what these vital lifeline air services require."