The Scottish Government has confirmed that the Air Discount Scheme will be renewed from 1st of April 2026 until at least 31st of March 2027, continuing support for cheaper air travel across the Highlands and Islands.
The scheme provides eligible residents with a 50% discount on core air fares, helping tackle the high cost of travel in some of Scotland’s most peripheral communities.
The Air Discount Scheme covers residents of Shetland, Orkney, the Western Isles, Islay, Jura, Colonsay, Caithness and north west Sutherland, offering reduced fares on eligible services to and from key population centres and between airports within peripheral areas.
Its purpose is to address the issue of high air fares in remote regions and improve social inclusion by keeping communities connected for work, education and family life.
Eligible travellers must register for the scheme and use their Air Discount Scheme card and PIN when booking, with discounted tickets restricted to members and registered young people under 16.
The renewal means the scheme will remain open to all existing eligible areas, including students attending colleges within those communities.
The Scottish Government has confirmed the scheme must now comply with new UK Subsidy Control rules and, once compliance is confirmed, Ministers intend to extend it beyond March 2027.
Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie said:
“The Air Discount Scheme plays a vital role in keeping our rural and island communities connected, so I am pleased to confirm the continuation of the scheme.
“The scheme will remain open to all the eligible areas and to students at the colleges within them.
The Scottish Government is committed to supporting residents and communities in the Highlands and Islands.
“Through this scheme we are directly tackling the issue of high air fares in these areas, while ensuring eligible travellers remain connected with family and education opportunities.”
For many islanders and those living in the far north, air travel is not a luxury but an essential link to healthcare, employment, education and family networks.
The extension provides continued certainty for communities that rely on regular air services as a lifeline rather than a convenience.
