Loganair and Flybe to part company
Loganair has today announced that it will sever ties with franchise partner Flybe and operate flights in its own right from 1 September 2017.
The airline has operated its services in Orkney under franchise agreements with British Airways, from 1993 to 2007, and latterly with Flybe from 2007.
The current franchise arrangement with Flybe will conclude on 31 August, 2017, although the two parties are continuing to discuss potential opportunities to work together in future.
Loganair’s codeshare arrangement with British Airways will also continue, enabling customers to make a single booking for a journey from points throughout the Highlands and Islands to London and onwards to British Airways’ worldwide network.
“Today’s announcement is a major milestone in the 54-year history of Loganair,” said Peter Simpson, chief executive of Airline Investments Ltd, Loganair’s parent company.
“Although Loganair has flown as a franchise carrier for larger airlines over the last 24 years, there is still a huge level of recognition and affinity for the Loganair name throughout Scotland and beyond.
“We believe the time is right for Scotland’s Airline to now spread its wings once again, and are delighted to be introducing a bold new corporate identity to accompany this important move.”
Loganair managing director Jonathan Hinkles added: “On behalf of the 600-strong team at Loganair, I’m delighted that Scotland’s Airline will be taking to the skies in its own right.
“All of us are very much looking forward to providing the highest standards of safety, punctuality and customer service synonymous with the Loganair name.
“We hold tremendous responsibility to operate services on lifeline routes and provide connectivity for Scotland — operating more flights in Scotland than every other airline put together — and I am wholly confident that Loganair’s independence will be warmly welcomed by both our customers and our dedicated team of professional employees.”
The transition will take place on 1 September, 2017.