Operating 11 airports across Scotland, Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) has joined the Airport Operators Association (AOA), the trade body for UK airports.
The addition of HIAL brings the total number of airports across the UK in AOA’s membership to 52.
Describing HIAL’s network of 11 regional airports, which combined welcomed 1.7 million passengers in 2019, as “a vital element of Scotland’s transport network,” Steward Adams, HIAL’s Chief Executive, said: “They enable lifeline services and essential air connectivity for a wide diversity of communities across the region from growing cities to our most remote island locations.
“Airports, irrespective of size and location, are facing similar challenges as we drive to build back sustainably following the pandemic and we look forward to working with the different members in the Association, sharing experiences and best practices.”
Recent figures show that HIAL’s airports are recovering strongly following COVID-19 with tens of millions continuing to be invested in services and infrastructure to support operations.
Karen Dee, AOA’s Chief Executive, added, “It is fantastic news that HIAL has decided to join the AOA and bring its unique perspective on the role that airports have to play in supporting the UK’s regions and activities. It is also a huge vote of confidence in the work that AOA is doing to share best practice, to represent the interests of aviation to government, and to celebrate the whole industry’s successes.”
