Local councilors have been persuaded that the switch of Loganair to a franchise with Flybe instead of British Airways will not undermine the service of Shetland. The Chiefs of Loganair were in the isles on Tuesday answering concerns and questions on the October 26^th handover. A lot of islanders are concerned that losing British Airways to a low cost carrier will develop a whirlwind of complications. However, the transport forum of the Shetland Islands Council heard convincing replies from David Harrison, the Acting Chief Executive Officer, and Susan Blacklaw, the Sales Manager.

Questions focused on problems that include bookings, luggage, discount schemes, the British Airways code share agreement, how well informed the staff of Flybe is about Shetland, and the changes to promotions for frequent fliers. Members seemed to be pretty satisfied with the replies to their questions, and Councilor Allan Wishart stated that he was impressed with how the company helped in easing the fears of the people. He said that there were a lot of complex issues that will be worked on during the next couple months, and he thinks that Loganair has completed their homework on a majority of it. There were only a couple of minor questions they will need to check on, however, he thinks that everything is going to work out overall.

Mr. Harrison made an introductory speech that outlined the crisis of the current economy on the industry of aviation as a result of the high cost of fuel, as well as other factors. However, he insisted that Loganair is strong financially. He reassured everyone that they are there to stay and will manage their way through the crisis. After that he said that he was happy to have the opportunity to explain what all will be involved in the changes coming up, with the main differences being how Loganair is marketed, as well as how flight bookings are made.

Find out more at: www.loganair.com