Highland Airways still flying: news in 48 hours

(Updated 19.00 26th January – see foot.) Highland Airways is continuing to fly today and is still in discussions with a potential investor.

The company’s website has been updated to explain that customers wishing to book for travel today can call customer services.

Online booking has been suspended for the time being but anyone wishing to fly today should book by calling: 0844 846 4990.

The company services the Argyll Air Services routes between Oban Airport and the islands of Coll, Tiree and Colonsay.

Update 19.00 26th January: Highland Airways has told us that its Board has been seeking new investment and has been in discussion with several parties.

It is anticipated that a further 48 hours will be required before any announcements can be made.

Argyll & Bute Council position, responsible for Argyll Air Services

Argyll and Bute Council has told us: ‘The Council has been in regular contact with Highland Airways, and will continue to do what it can to support the airline as it seeks to overcome its current difficulties.

‘A contingency plan has been drafted and will be implemented if necessary after consideration by the Council. This is a purely precautionary measure which sets down options and possible ways forward for the Council should the situation regarding Highland Airways change’.

Response from Jamie McGrigor, MSP

Commenting on the news today that Highland Airways – due to ‘continuing problems’ – has temporarily stopped taking bookings, Highlands & Islands MSP Jamie McGrigor said: ‘I share my constituents’ concerns about the news of the problems afflicting Highland Airways.

‘I have written to the Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson on this subject seeking assurances.

‘Highland Airways’ routes are crucial to my region, including lifeline air routes from Inverness to Benbecula and Stornoway; and from Oban to Coll and Tiree.

‘Everything possible must be done to secure their future.’

Response from Alan Reid MP

Alan Reid, MP for Argyll & Bute, has emailed and called on the Scottish Government and Argyll & Bute Council to step in and get the situation sorted out as soon as possible.

He says: ‘The flights to Tiree, Coll and Colonsay are vital to these islands. The Scottish Government and Argyll & Bute Council must get this situation sorted out as soon as possible’.