This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Air fares fall in Highlands and Islands
29/03/2004
Tenders for the air routes between Glasgow and
Campbeltown, Tiree and Barra have been awarded on the basis
that fares will be up to 30% cheaper than they were in the
past.
The Highlands and Islands Convention on Arran has been
told that the award honours a pledge he made to rural
communities that the Scottish government would take action
to ensure lower cost air travel in the region.
The routes will be operated by Loganair with the lower
fare service commencing on July 1.
First Minister Jack McConnell said:
"This announcement is an important one. It sends out a
clear signal that we are determined to address the issue of
high air fares for local people and visitors who travel on
these routes. It says that we will make decisions and take
action that immediately benefits this country.
"Because a successful and vibrant Highlands and Islands
depends on having strong communities and a dynamic tourism
industry. If we grow tourism, we grow the region. If we
grow the region, we help grow Scotland.
"Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the
world. We have a unique product to offer. Today's
announcement will allow this product to be experienced by
many more people."
Transport Minister, Nicol Stephen, told the
convention:
"These routes are lifelines for Campbeltown, Tiree and
Barra. They connect people to public services and
businesses to their markets, helping communities to survive
and thrive.
"We are determined to ensure that costs are not a
barrier to travel to and from Scotland's remote and island
communities. By reducing air fares, we can help them retain
more of their people and attract more visitors."
The three routes supported by the Executive could not be
provided on a commercial basis. Public Service Obligations
(PSOs) have been in effect on the services between
Glasgow-Tiree and Glasgow Barra since 1994 - and Glasgow -
Cambeltown since 1996. Competitive bids were sought on an
EU-wide basis and under EC regulation 2408/92.