SNP MSPs Colin Keir and Brian Adam have welcomed news that Virgin Atlantic has been offered the short haul remedy slots from Edinburgh and Aberdeen to Heathrow.
The MSPs have hailed the offer, which follows International Airline Group’s takeover of Bmi, as “fantastic news for passengers”.
Mr Keir, whose Edinburgh Western constituency covers Edinburgh Airport, said:
“This is a very welcome announcement that will bring competition on the routes thus keeping prices down which is fantastic news for passengers.
“I am very keen to see increased competition on such a vital link between the capital cities.
“The air links between Heathrow and Scotland are vital for our economy, with better links giving a huge boost for tourism and business.”
Aberdeen Donside MSP Brian Adam added:
“Aberdeen is one of Scotland’s most important cities and it is extremely encouraging that Virgin Atlantic will now be able to operate direct flights to London.
“I warmly welcome this news, which will bring huge benefits to passengers, Scotland’s aviation industry and the wider Scottish economy.
“Although this is a welcome development, recovery in the aviation sector is fragile which is why we need devolution of Air Passenger Duty to enable us to incentivise airlines to provide new direct international routes.”