Aberdeen Airport investment must improve facilities for isles patients – MSP

The announcement of a £20 million redevelopment of Aberdeen Airport has been greeted with renewed calls to improve facilities for Northern Isles folk travelling south for hospital appointments.

Concerns have been raised about the lack of accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility or passengers who may feel unwell and require additional privacy or comfort. In light of increased flight delays, these concerns have  intensified as passengers face lengthy waits in the Aberdeen airport terminal.

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has been pressing the airport management to improve patient facilities since 2013 and yesterday said there must now be a firm commitment to deliver improved facilities for passengers who may have reduced mobility or other specific needs.

He said: “Given how many patients from Orkney and Shetland travel through Aberdeen Airport on the way to and from hospital appointments, it is vital that steps are taken to better meet their needs. Often these passengers can be feeling extremely unwell and the option of having more privacy and comfort is one they would welcome. The current problems with flight delays have only heightened this need.

“I discussed the issue with Loganair’s head of operations and he confirmed that he will be making similar representations during meetings at Aberdeen Airport next week. I welcome that support and look forward to this new investment delivering facilities that are fit for all airport users, including patients from the Northern Isles.”