Also in the news / Saabs to be phased out, leftover pumpkins, Tall Ships volunteering, tourism conference and more…
LOGANAIR is finally phasing out its remaining eight Saab340B aircraft thanks to a $12 million agreement to bring in next generation ATR turboprops by July 2023.
The airline said the new planes would result in a 27 per cent reduction in carbon emissions per seat.
The completed ATR fleet will have an average age of eight years and bring enhanced capacity across the network with more passenger seats on each flight.
Loganair chief executive Jonathan Hinkles said: “The Saab 340s have served us, and our customers, superbly well over the last two decades but it’s time for us to transition to a new generation of aircraft.
“In selecting our future fleet, it’s important to have an aircraft which builds upon our environmental credentials while withstanding island weather conditions and providing accessibility for all customers in the communities we serve – we’ve found all those characteristics and more in the ATR turboprop.”
Loganair is the UK’s largest regional airline, operating 42 aircraft on over 70 routes throughout the UK, the Isle of Man, Ireland, Norway and Denmark.
ANYONE still with leftover pumpkins from Halloween is invited to put them to good use by helping to feed pigs in Burra.
The Outpost, at Houss, will take any old pumpkins that would otherwise go to waste.
It is well known for its menagerie of animals – including emus and wallabies, and its resident pigs, which are fond of pumpkins.
Owner Dave Kok said: “Want to see your spooky pumpkins be frightfully destroyed by some massively terrifying jaws? Then pop along to the Outpost – the pigs will be more than happy to lay waste to them.”
Anyone interested in dropping off old pumpkins are advised to place them in the Outpost’s pig pen.
THE ORGANISERS of next summer’s Tall Ships have issued an additional appeal for volunteers interested in becoming a liaison officer for the four-day event ahead of next week’s deadline for applications.
Shetland Tall Ships Ltd said there had been a very healthy response within the community so far, with more than 40 applications and many more notes of interest.
Up to 90 liaison officers will act as the islands’ representatives for visiting crews during the event, which takes place from 26-29 July 2023.
A further 70-plus volunteers are also being sought to cover event information points, help out at park-and-ride sites and offer general marshalling. Applications for those roles will be accepted until 13 January.
Shetland Tall Ships project manager Emma Miller said: “Volunteering at the Tall Ships event is a great way to really feel part of the whole thing – it’s more than just attending and enjoying the activities.”
Anyone interested in finding out more about the voluntary roles can visit www.tallshipslerwick.com, email info@tallshipslerwick.com or phone 01595 502110.
THE SHETLAND Tourism Association (STA) is to hold the isles’ first full tourism industry conference later this month.
The programme for the one-day event will include talks and workshops on a wide variety of topics.
Keynote speakers will give presentations on green and sustainable tourism, VisitScotland services, rural tourism development, Shetland’s GeoPark status, cruise tourism trends and opportunities, as well as Promote Shetland’s activities.
Incoming STA chair Robina Barton said: “The last two and a half years have obviously been challenging for our sector, but it is great to be holding an in-person conference now, coming together to look to the future of tourism in Shetland.”
The conference is on at the Shetland Museum and Archives on 15 November. Tickets for association members are now on sale. The full programme of the conference can be found here.
SHETLAND MSP Beatrice Wishart has welcomed the second careers week which starts on Monday.
Backed by Skills Development Scotland the campaign hopes to showcase opportunities and industries to match employers with local talent.
“Good career support can help people find their true passion and thrive,” the Lib Dem politician said.
“Finding the right career may seem a daunting task but there is support available and more information from Skills Development Scotland can be found online.”
Wishart has also signed a parliamentary motion that has support from all parties represented in the Scottish Parliament.
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