McArthur responds to Loganair comments on ADS

Orkney's MSP Liam McArthur has responded to comments made by Loganair representatives at the Scottish Parliament's Transport Committee while giving evidence this morning that they did not believe the Air Discount Scheme has any impact on the on the number of passengers using their services. Mr McArthur has described the comments as "utter nonsense".

The Air Discount Scheme was introduced in 2006 provides a 50% discount for islanders on their flight fares in and out of the islands. 

Commenting, Mr McArthur said: 

"The Air Discount Scheme was introduced in 2006 by my former colleague, Tavish Scott when he was Transport Minister.  It reflected a recognition that our lifeline air services needed to be made more accessible to the islanders who relied upon them.

"Even with ADS, however, I’m painfully aware that air travel remains beyond the means of many constituents in Orkney. But for Loganair to suggest that ADS has no impact on the number of people using their services is utter nonsense.

"I don’t believe the Scottish Government has plans to withdraw ADS support, a move that would certainly be fiercely resisted. Meantime, Loganair need to reflect on comments that will have many islanders choking on their caramel wafers."