A PLAN to help Scotland’s aviation sector balance growth with the country’s net zero commitment has been published.
The Aviation Statement sets out actions the Scottish Government will take to help grow Scotland’s international connectivity, secure lifeline services in the Highlands and Islands and play its part in international efforts to decarbonise aviation. This includes:
- Examining how low and zero emission aircraft could improve connectivity for island and rural communities.
- Considering options for increasing the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Scotland.
- Reviewing existing routes supported by the Scottish Government to understand the value added and to help realise our vision for Scotland to be at least as well connected as comparable nations.
- Reviewing current governance arrangements for local authority and HIAL-operated airports to consider how to make operations more efficient.
Minsters will also continue to influence the UK Government so that Scotland can benefit fully from their Jet Zero strategy, including by helping to delivering our target for domestic flights to reach net zero by 2040.
Commenting on the publication of the new Aviation Statement, a spokesperson for AGS Airports, which owns and operates Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports, said:
“It is welcome the Scottish Government recognises the strategic importance of aviation and the essential role it plays in facilitating trade, investment, tourism and job creation while providing lifeline services for our rural and island communities.
“This now needs to translate into a clear and ambitious policy framework that sets out how government and industry can work together to strengthen the vital international and domestic connectivity on which we are so reliant, while at the same time ensuring Scotland is at the forefront of harnessing the technologies that exist today to reach our net zero goals.
“We look forward to meeting with the Government at the earliest opportunity to agree concrete actions that will deliver our collective ambition of growing connectivity while reducing emissions and ensuring Scotland is not at a competitive disadvantage.”
Stuart Patrick, CEO of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, has commented:
“The Scottish Government’s recognition of the crucial role that air travel plays in our economy is a welcome step forward for the industry. We hope it signals a strong commitment to the trade, tourism, job creation, and lifeline services that the sector supports.
“What businesses need now is a clear action plan to back up this position. A robust aviation sector is vital for Glasgow’s economic growth, and achieving this ambition requires decisive action from the Government.
“We are ready to collaborate with the Scottish Government in implementing this action plan that strengthens the role of airports in facilitating trade, attracting investment, and increasing visitor numbers to Glasgow.”
