07 Nov 2002
The launch today of more direct air services to and from Scotland will bring great opportunities for travellers, business and tourism in Scotland, Scottish Secretary Helen Liddell said today.
The airline Globespan announced plans to launch a new, and the first Scottish, no frills airline Flyglobespan.com. It will offer scheduled flights from Glasgow Prestwick International Airport to Palma, Nice, Rome and Malaga and Edinburgh International Airport to Palma, Nice Barcelona and Malaga.
Helen Liddell said:
"Today's news is excellent for the people and economy of Scotland. Flyglobespan.com's decision to develop new services from Prestwick and Edinburgh will provide business and leisure travellers with an even greater range of direct services to continental Europe. It is also great news for business and tourism with these new direct flights bringing significant benefits back into Scotland.
"The success is a testimonial to Glasgow Prestwick International Airport and Edinburgh International Airport, and I congratulate the management and staff at both airports for their continuing commitment to delivering the right environment for growth and the economic benefits this brings.
"Scottish airports continue to show increased numbers of air passengers flying despite a downturn in global figures. In the 12 months to September 2002, Prestwick has seen a 21.3% increase in air passengers and Edinburgh is similarly up 13.3%. With the new services, these figures are expected to rise in the future.
"Today's announcement shows there are opportunities for growth and expansion, and the aviation sector's commitment to raising the profile of Scotland on the global air travel map. I urge other airlines to follow this lead and develop the potential that exists here in Scotland. I hope the travelling public will take full advantage of the opportunities available."
Notes for Editors
1. Scotland's airports at present have international direct scheduled flights to 39 destinations in 16 countries with a further 130 international destinations in 33 countries served by indirect flights (with one stop). Further details can be obtained from BAA plc www.baa.co.uk. and from Glasgow Prestwick airport www.gpia.co.uk
2. The Government is currently undertaking a consultation process on the future development of air service across the UK, which included a consultation document for Scotland. Consultation documents and questionnaires are available on-line at www.airconsult.gov.uk or by calling the helpline on 0845 100 5554. The consultation period closes on 30 November.
3. More details of Globespan and Flyglobespan.com's services can be obtained at www.globespan.com and www.flyglobespan.com