Study into Skye air service

A study is underway to explore the economic benefits of re-establishing air services between Skye and the central belt. Highlands and Islands Enterprise has commissioned ekosgen consultancy to carry out the study, which kicks off with a stakeholder workshop in Broadford today (Wednesday 16 September). Representatives from the Fly Skye campaign will be at the workshop along with public bodies such as Highland Council, Creative Scotland and HITRANS, and a small number of local business representatives. The project follows the 2013 Skye Air Services Feasibility Study which recommended further work to explore the wider economic and social benefits of re-introducing air services. A key part of the study will be consultation with a wide range of local businesses and community organisations. Stuart MacPherson of HIE, said: “Strong reliable transport links are of course crucial to a successful and competitive region. Air services from and to small rural airports can play a key role in the communities they serve, creating a sense of connectedness, providing life-line services and supporting economic growth. Skye is served by the road bridge and by ferry services but it is over two hours from the nearest airport and at least a five hour drvie to the central belt. We need to be clear about the full extent of the benefits of reintroducing a regular air service for the island and surrounding area as this will help inform the business case to re-establish the service.” The existing air strip in Ashaig, Broadford was opened in 1972 to serve as a gateway to the Island. Loganair operated a scheduled service from the airfield to Glasgow from 1972 to 1988 when the service was disbanded. In recent years, efforts to re-establish the air service have been gaining momentum.