Calls for Caithness to be Included in Air Transport Strategy
Far North MSP David Green has warned the future of air services in Caithness "cannot be an afterthought" as calls grow for a regional air transport strategy for the Highlands and Islands.
His intervention comes after Loganair urged the Scottish and UK governments to "urgently" develop a strategy to support essential air routes that are not commercially viable, following cuts to two island services.
In June, MSPs from across the political spectrum wrote to Transport Secretary Stephen Flynn MSP, calling on the Scottish Government to lead the development of a regional air strategy for the Highlands and Islands and help safeguard vital air links.
While Mr Flynn fell short of agreeing to lead the development of a strategy, Mr Green secured a meeting earlier this month to discuss the reinstatement of the Wick-Aberdeen Public Service Obligation (PSO) air route, as well as PSO support for a Wick-Edinburgh service.
With the current PSO contract set to expire on 14 August 2026, Mr Green stressed the importance of securing a future for the route. The Transport Secretary is unable to comment on ongoing discussions, but Mr Green said officials highlighted the positive nature of talks with Highland Council.
This week, SNP MSP Hannah Mary Goodlad, who represents Shetland, and Scottish Green MSP Kristopher Leask, a Highlands and Islands representative, have confirmed they are working with regional transport bodies to "map out the first steps" towards a plan to improve regional connectivity.
Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP David Green said:
“As one of the most rural mainland regions in the country, people in the Far North face exceptionally long and often unreliable journey times by road.
“Poor connectivity too often acts as a barrier to employers seeking to attract and retain people in the Highlands. For many patients, particularly elderly residents and those with complex medical needs, the inability to travel quickly and reliably can have a significant impact on both health outcomes and quality of life.
“These circumstances clearly meet the threshold for lifeline support.
“I was therefore grateful for the opportunity to put this case to the Transport Secretary and welcome his recognition of the case being made by Highland Council. However, with the deadline now approaching, swift action is needed.”
Mr Green added: “The growing calls for a regional air transport strategy for the Highlands and Islands represent a real moment of opportunity. However, the future of air services in Caithness cannot be treated as an afterthought.
“People in the North Highlands should not be placed at a disadvantage simply because of where they live. Getting that right will require leadership from government, of that there is no doubt.”
ENDS.