SNP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan has commented on the decision by HIAL to close its airports to all but a skeleton air service, a decision which will affect Stornoway, Benbecula and Barra airports in his constituency.

Alasdair Allan MSP commented:

“I think people in the islands will understand why this decision by HIAL has been necessary. Although this is a drastic step - limiting connectivity in the islands in a way not seen for many decades -it is one that is needed in the present emergency.

“The news comes at the same time as CalMac publishes a ‘lifeline’ timetable with significantly fewer sailings to and from all islands, and transport limited to essential travellers.

“HIAL have announced that Loganair will run a skeleton service from Sunday, aimed at ensuring that health services continue to operate, people who are working in the oil industry get to work and the Royal Mail continues to function. 

“These are very difficult times for Scotland, both in human and economic terms, and this will be felt in the islands. There is little alternative to today’s announcements, and I know that the Scottish Government is committed to making sure that full transport services are resumed whenever it is safe for that  to happen.”