A landmark investment by Orkney Islands Council is set to bring new strength, reliability and long-term resilience to one of Scotland’s most vital transport networks.
A £2 million package of strategic improvements will support the purchase of a third aircraft to serve the inter-island air service, marking what Council Leader Heather Woodbridge has called an “historic moment” for the islands.
Funded through one-off support from the Scottish Government’s ScotWind programme, the investment aims to ensure islanders remain connected in the face of increasing pressures on infrastructure and climate resilience.
The centrepiece of the plan is the acquisition of a new Britten-Norman Islander aircraft, which will provide additional flight capacity and reduce the number of shared journeys between islands.
The third aircraft will also boost reliability, helping to mitigate delays and cancellations when aircraft are out of service or weather disrupts regular operations.
Alongside the aircraft, the Council will also purchase a landing craft vessel, allowing for greater flexibility across the internal ferry network, particularly during breakdowns or peak periods.
A runway roller and compactor will also be added to the Council’s toolkit, enabling in-house teams to carry out airfield maintenance more efficiently and ensuring compliance with Civil Aviation Authority regulations.
Council Leader Heather Woodbridge said the decision to approve the investments, agreed by Elected Members in July, marked a significant moment in Orkney’s long-term vision for sustainable transport.
“This investment represents a vital step forward in securing the future of our lifeline transport services,” she said.
“By taking a proactive approach, we’re not only addressing current challenges but also building resilience for the years ahead.
“These assets will help ensure that our island communities remain connected, supported, and sustainable.”
She praised the collaboration between local officials and the Scottish Government, adding that the funding was a direct result of strong relationships with ministers and the success of ongoing dialogue.
“The decision by Elected Members to use the funding in this way and take the huge step of purchasing an aircraft is an historic moment for this Council,” she said.
“I’m proud that we are making smart use of this one-off funding to deliver real, lasting benefits for Orkney.”
Scottish Government Finance Secretary Shona Robison echoed the significance of the moment and reaffirmed the national commitment to island communities.
“We recognise the unique challenges faced by island communities and the importance of targeted support to improve connectivity for people in Orkney,” she said.
“This funding helps the local community to develop solutions to these challenges whilst delivering on the ambitions of the National Islands Plan.”
With procurement now underway, the Council will soon begin consulting with communities across the North Isles to plan a future inter-island timetable based on a three-aircraft operation.
It is a rare and meaningful moment of progress, one that promises to keep Orkney connected for generations to come.
