The rise in the cost of air fares between Barra and Glasgow is causing concern
Na h-Eileanan an Iar MP Angus MacNeil has written to Loganair and the Scottish Government about the price hike. He said he was “alarmed” after islanders drew his attention to the price changes that took effect last month.
Airfares have gone up by around £10 for islanders if they have a residents’ fare card but without a card in some cases travellers will face an increase of up to 100 per cent. These cards are not the same as Air Discount Scheme cards.
“Islanders can apply for a discount and residents’ fares will be capped, but they must apply for their residents’ fare card which can take one to two months before it is issued,” said Mr MacNeil. “Loganair has stated residents’ fares cannot be applied retrospectively, meaning a card is needed or else high prices are paid.
“Residents’ fare cards should be available to collect in Barra so that people can receive them as soon as possible, rather than having to write to an office in Inverness,” adding it had been rushed in without necessary safeguards in place.
“Non-island residents will pay more which is quite a substantial hike of up to 100 per cent. Non-island residents cannot get a card and therefore could be charged up to £160 one way. This raises questions about wider family and friends visiting the island.
“There will be a chaotic period until they sort it out. I think there should be a hiatus in the pricing changing structure. Current prices should be maintained until the chaos is ironed out by both parties,” added Mr McNeil.
A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “The Residents’ Fare Card for the Glasgow to Tiree and Barra air services was launched in July to give people time to apply for the scheme, well ahead of the fares coming into effect on October 25. This was promoted through the local press and social media channels.
“Everyone who applied for a card up to October 24 received their card in time for the start of the scheme. New applications should be processed within one week.
“The subsidy requirement for the Glasgow to Campbeltown, Tiree and Barra services for 2019 to 2023 was £20.95 million. The subsidy for the new service from 2023 to 2027 has increased to £30.91 million. Despite the significant increase in cost, we are committed to the continuation of the services as we recognise the vital role they play for island communities.”
Caption: Na h-Eileanan an Iar MP Angus MacNeil