MP calls for immediate safety review of Loganair planes

Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael has urged the Civil Aviation Authority to conduct an immediate review of Loganair’s safety capabilities, following a letter from the company’s pilots expressing concerns about the technical deficiencies of some of their aircraft.

In his letter to the chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority, Mr Carmichael refers to the regular complaints from customers from the Northern Isles about the services provided by Loganair and the frequent delays over technical faults.

Mr Carmichael stresses that passenger safety and confidence in Loganair is of paramount importance, and expresses his concern at the pilots’ dissatisfaction with the engineering services being provided on the ground.

He said: “This is an extremely serious development. Pilots publicly questioning the safety of their aircraft is unprecedented in my experience and needs to be taken seriously. The Civil Aviation Authority is responsible for aviation safety in the UK and so they must implement an immediate review of Loganair’s aircraft and engineering services.

“Already this year we have seen two incidents requiring unscheduled landings mid-flight, including a diversion to Aberdeen on a flight from Sumburgh after the engine shut down. Before a serious incident occurs again, we need a thorough safety review to renew passenger and community confidence in Loganair.

“I have written to the Civil Aviation Authority and shall attempt to raise this tomorrow in the House of Commons.”