This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Lifeline air services secured
13/12/2006
Lifeline air services between Glasgow and the remote communities of Campbeltown, Barra and Tiree have been secured until March 2009.
The announcement follows the results of a tender process for the three vital routes, which today saw the contract being awarded to Loganair.
Transport Minister Tavish Scott said:
"I am delighted that we have managed to secure these vital services for the communities of Campbeltown, Barra and Tiree.
"To these communities, these air services are a lifeline. They provide a direct link to employment, education and social activities - links that most of us in Scotland take for granted.
"Access to affordable, regular transport services is essential if we are to ensure that our rural communities continue to prosper and grow.
"This devolved government is committed to improving transport links to all areas of Scotland. Islanders, remote communities, businessmen and tourists are all set to benefit as a result."
Background:
Following a recent tendering exercise, Loganair Ltd has been awarded the contract to provide lifeline air services between Glasgow International Airport and Campbeltown, Tiree and Barra. The contract will be for the period 1 January 2007 until 31 March 2009.
The present extended contracts expire on 31 December 2006. All 3 services to Campbeltown, Tiree and Barra have been awarded under Public Service Obligations (PSOs) and the new contract will come into effect from 1 January 2007. PSOs have been in effect on the services between Glasgow-Tiree and Glasgow-Barra since 1994, and Glasgow-Campbeltown since 1996. Competitive bids were sought on an EU-wide basis and under EC Regulation 2408/92. There are no state aid issues - the competitive tendering under the EC Regulation applies. The air services are vital for the economic sustainability of fragile communities and the award provides continuity of services.
The contract dictates that a minimum frequency of the following must be provided by Loganair:
- Two return trips per day (except Saturday and Sunday) between Glasgow and Campbeltown
- One return trip per day (except Sunday) between Glasgow and Tiree
- One return trip per day (except Sunday) between Glasgow and Barra