Island routes dogfight on between former partners

Flybe enlists Eastern to help take on Loganair

The biggest Scottish islands air battle for decades has been launched with Flybe and Eastern Airways competing against former partners Loganair.

Eastern has started rival flights in conjunction with Flybe between Sumburgh in Shetland and Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen.

It is also flying on Loganair’s routes between Stornoway in Lewis and Glasgow, Kirkwall in Orkney and Aberdeen, and Glasgow-manchester.

The competition is likely to sharpen up the performance of both operators, but experts have questioned whether there is sufficient demand for two airlines on routes to such low population areas.

It is also unclear whether the rivalry will reduce fares overall after initial promotions have ended.

The dogfight follows a bustup between Flybe and Glasgow-based Loganair, which has operated flights on Flybe’s behalf since 2008.

Loganair is also flying alone for the first time in 25 years, having previously partnered with British Airways over its Highlands and Islands network. The dispute, over Flybe’s plans to charge Loganair more for the arrangement, has caused considerable bad blood between them.

Flybe said its new deal with Eastern would provide “extra choice, lower fares and a wealth of onward connections” for passengers.

Chief executive Christine Ourmieres-widener said: “These six routes allow us to provide the genuine competition and lower fares that islanders have so long been calling for.”

She said there would also be “more options to access a wider range of onward destinations both via our wider Flybe network and beyond”.

Meanwhile, Loganair said its passengers would be able to link in with British Airways flights and check through baggage.

Managing director Jonathan Hinkles said: “The only people who think there is room for two airlines on the island routes is our competitor.

“But we’re focused on delivering the very best service, at the best price and with the best reliability that we can to make sure we win the battle.”

Aviation consultant John Strickland said: “The key to success will depend on whether the market grows to allow profitability for both operators or whether it a simply develops into a price battle for existing traffic.”