Kirkwall Airport will hopefully see a new hangar developed to support inter-island air services in Orkney.

Orkney Islands Council’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee has given support to the project to build a new hangar to house Loganair’s maintenance operation for Islander aircraft.

The project is being developed between the Council and HIAL.  The final gap in the funding package was filled recently when the OIC’s Policy and Resources Committee agreed to increase the Council’s contribution by £500,000, making a total of £1.15m with a further £300,000 being provided by HIAL. The airport operator is also providing the land, via a lease, for the development.

Final details of partnership arrangements are being finalised between the Council and HIAL and it is hoped construction will begin this year.

Councillor Bob Sclater, Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee said: “Construction of the new hangar is an important part of the council’s commitment to a continuing future for the inter-isles air service, which plays a crucial role in sustaining the social and economic life of the isles.

“The new hangar will be a modern and up-to-date environment for maintaining aircraft, and it will help to ensure continuing employment for those who look after the aircraft. It will continue the programme of investment which has taken place at the airport over recent years, including the new terminal, the Instrument Landing System, and the new control tower, which have benefited all airport users.”

David Blackman, Kirkwall Airport Manager with HIAL ,said: “The new hangar will support Loganair’s maintenance operation for Islander aircraft at the airport and the valuable jobs this provides. We are pleased to again be involved in an effective partnership with Orkney Islands Council on this project following the successful installation of the airport’s Instrument Landing System last year with funding support from both the council and the local enterprise company.

“The inter-island air services provide vital lifeline links and the new hangar will play an important part in supporting their future role in the islands.”

ENDS