MSP calls for improvements for travelling patients

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has renewed calls for improvements to facilities available for isles patients travelling between Orkney and Aberdeen.

Patients have repeatedly raised concerns about the effect that flight delays have on their treatment, with many missing appointments and having to wait weeks or months for these to be rescheduled.

Concerns have also been raised about the added problem of those who are already feeling unwell of who have mobility issues, finding themselves having to endure lengthy waits in the airport terminal at both Aberdeen and Kirkwall.

In light of the most recent revelations about passengers experience, Mr McArthur approached Aberdeen and Kirkwall airports as well as Loganair calling for steps to be taken to ensure patients are given the support they need while travelling.

Mr McArthur said: “While flight delays have affected many passengers, I have been particularly concerned at the impact of this disruption for the large number of patients who use these lifeline routes.

“Tackling the root cause of these delays is obviously the priority, but in the meantime there are steps than can be taken on a number of fronts.”