Highlands and Islands Airports Limited

Loganair announced today that it would operate scheduled services in summer 2009 between Shetland and Bergen in Norway. 

Loganair intends to build on the success of this year’s programme when nearly 1400 passengers used the twice weekly service. From June 2nd to the end of August 2009 Loganair will operate on Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. The addition of the Thursday service gives the tourist great flexibility and choice of holiday arrangements.

Loganair’s Chairman Scott Grier said: “We, of course, were aware of the important historical and cultural links between Shetland and Norway and we knew of the great disappointment that was felt when the Smyril ferry service between Shetland and Norway was discontinued last year, but the high demand for our air services exceeded our expectations. We are delighted with the results of our 2008 programme and look forward with great confidence to our increased operation next year.”

Andy Steven, VisitScotland’s Islands Manager, said: “The fact that this direct flight is increasing its frequency is great news for tourism businesses in Shetland. Loganair is clearly building on its previous successes with this direct route which will provide further opportunity for Shetland to capitalise on opportunities for growth. We look forward to welcoming an even greater number of visitors to Shetland and wish Loganair every success with this development.”

Loganair’s Shetland – Bergen services for summer 2009 will go on sale through the www.flybe.com reservations system.

Flight details are:

Tuesdays and Thursdays

BE 6863  Depart Shetland 1110  Arrive Bergen 1330

BE 6864  Depart Bergen 1410  Arrive Shetland 1430

Saturday                     

BE 6863  Depart Shetland 1410  Arrive Bergen 1630

BE 6864  Depart Bergen 1710  Arrive Shetland 1730