McArthur meets with Loganair over ‘serious and unacceptable’ disruption

Additions to the Loganair fleet are to be made this week, following disruption that had been described as “serious and unacceptable” by Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur.

Mr McArthur spoke with Loganair CEO, Jonathan Hinkles last night to raise concerns about a series of incidents over recent days involving delays, cancellations and passengers being asked to come off flights altogether.  It follows serious disruption to services during March and April.

Orkney’s MSP has been assured that additional capacity is being brought into the fleet this week that is expected to address the principal problems.  However, Mr McArthur has sought further updates later in the week and is due to meet with Loganair’s management again next week to assess the situation.

Commenting on recent developments, Mr McArthur said: “Many constituents have been in touch over recent days to highlight their experience of flight delays, cancellations and being asked to come off flights that are too full.  All in all, the impact of this ongoing disruption has been serious and unacceptable.

“These are lifeline air services where reliability is all the more important.  At present, that reliability is simply not where it needs to be.  I have reiterated to Loganair the frustration felt by passengers and the loss of public confidence.

“I have been assured that additional capacity is being brought into the fleet this week and that this should help address the principal problem.  However, I have asked for an update later in the week and will be meeting with Loganair’s management again next week to assess the latest situation.