The UK’s biggest regional airline Loganair (LM/LOG) has started operations with new ATR aircraft at its Glasgow base as it replaces older turboprops.
The ATR 42-600 aircraft are part of a multi-million-pound fleet investment and are larger, quieter, and more efficient than the Saab 340s they replace.
The new aircraft will operate on services linking Glasgow Airport (GLA/EGPF) with Islay, Benbecula, Sumburgh and Donegal from July, followed by Kirkwall and Derry services from August.
The ATR42-600 will also serve routes to Derry and Donegal.
The Saab 340s will continue to operate for the airliner during the summer before being formally retired after 20 years of service with Loganair.
Jonathan Hinkles, CEO, Loganair, said: “This is a major milestone in Loganair’s investment plans to renew our fleet, and it futureproofs the essential air links to Scotland’s island communities which is Loganair’s privilege to serve. Investment in new equipment has been undertaken by Loganair on a purely commercial basis and without recourse to public subsidy.”
The 48-seat ATR42-600 will reduce carbon emissions on the routes it serves by up to 27% compared to the Saab 340 and offer passengers a more spacious cabin.
They are also equipped with the latest avionics suite meaning flights to the islands are less likely to be cancelled or delayed due to weather such as fog.