The UK’s leading regional airline Loganair (LM/LOG) has launched its new routes from London Heathrow (LHR/EGLL) as it switches flights from outlying London airports.
The new routes will operate from Terminal 2 at London Heathrow and include Derry, previously operated from London Stansted and Dundee, previously operated from London City.
Orkney and Shetland are also now served from London Heathrow in addition to the airlines established Isle of Man service.
The flights got underway yesterday with a special gate party for the 9.45am inaugural flight to Shetland attended by Loganair’s Chief Executive, Jonathan Hinkles and Heathrow’s Aviation Director, Joanna Taso.
Mr Hinkles said: “These routes really take Loganair’s provision of regional connectivity to new heights and underline our credentials as the UK’s largest regional airline. We’re very grateful to the UK Government and BA for their support in securing these slots for domestic connectivity and it was great to see so many happy passengers boarding the new services today.
“Maintaining and improving regional connectivity is one of the main levers of a powerful economy and with these new routes we’re offering business connections into the heart of London from some of the most remote communities in the UK.
“Likewise, we’ve opened the door to enhanced tourism for places like Derry, Dundee, Shetland and Orkney, while also giving all our passengers access to the incredible onward connections on offer at Heathrow. It truly is a game changer for regional commercial aviation.”
Joanna Taso, Aviation Director for Heathrow added: “We are delighted to be celebrating the inaugural Heathrow to Sumburgh via Dundee departure. Loganair’s new domestic routes to Dundee and the City of Derry will open up lifeline connectivity and global business opportunities via Heathrow, the UK’s gateway to the world. Their expanded operations are supported by our domestic passenger discount and demonstrate Heathrow’s longstanding commitment to regional connectivity.”
Loganair still operates to the Isle of Man from London City Airport.