Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan has written to Eastern Airways over their decision to change the schedule for their Monday flight from Stornoway to Aberdeen.

The company currently operates a 09.30 service from Stornoway Airport. A number of constituents raised concerns with the MSP after it was revealed this would be changing to an afternoon service.

Alasdair Allan MSP commented:

“There are a significant number of people living in the Isles who work offshore or in the Aberdeen area. This change will bring considerable disruption to their lives.

“Given that the majority of the people using this service will be working in the oil industry, it seems incredibly ill-thought out to propose a change that would result in many offshore workers missing their helicopter connections. It also poses significant challenges to anyone trying to work a 5-day week in Aberdeen.

“I have been in touch with the company many times over the years over timetabling issues and it does seem that Eastern Airways should be doing much more when it comes to consulting the people who actually use the service.

“I hope the company will listen to the common sense case being made and retain the Monday morning flight.”