Loganair extends Orkney route contract

Scotland’s Airline Loganair has been awarded the contract to operate the Orkney inter-isles air service for four years from 1 April, securing its future as operator of the world’s shortest scheduled flight following a competitive tendering process. 

The new contract, awarded by Orkney Islands Council, means the airline will continue to provide Orkney’s inter-isles air services, linking Kirkwall with North Ronaldsay, Sanday, Stronsay, Eday Westray and Papa Westray.

The flight between Westray and Papa Westray can be as short as 47 seconds, officially qualifying it as the world’s shortest scheduled flight.

The new contract will run for four years, from 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2021, with an additional option for a further 12-month extension period up until 31 March 2022.

Loganair’s bid for the Air Services Public Service Obligation Contract (PSO) was assessed against a number of operational and service requirements. These included set-up arrangements, quality of customer service, service frequency, fare structure and service resilience.

Loganair inaugurated the Orkney inter-isles air service with Britten-Norman Islander aircraft in September 1967, and has continuously provided these vital links ever since.   Events are now being planned to mark the 50th anniversary of the air service and operation of the Islander in Orkney.

Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair’s managing director said: “It’s a privilege to be selected to provide air services to the community of Orkney for another four years.  The contract award is a testament to the dedication of our team of pilots, engineers and ground staff in Orkney who operate these essential air-links every day.”

“This year’s contract award is particularly special as it will take us into and beyond the 50th anniversary of our presence in Orkney.  We look forward to marking the occasion later this year, and to providing Orkney’s air services for many more years to come.”

Using Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander planes, the service connects the Orkney Islands, transporting teachers and pupils to school, food, mail and banking supplies as well as patients to hospital.