The Airport Operators Association (AOA), the trade body for UK airports, is delighted to announce that Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), the operating company for 11 airports across Scotland, is joining membership. This brings the total number of airports across the UK in our membership to 52, and continues to strengthen the industry’s voice with government.
Commenting on the news, the AOA’s chief executive, Karen Dee, said: “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 the AOA is doing to share best practice, to represent the interests of aviation to government, and to celebrate the whole industry’s successes. We cannot wait to get to work with the teams at HIAL’s various airports and help them get the most out of their membership.”
Also, Stewart Adams, HIAL’s chief executive, said: “HIAL’s network of 11 regional airports are a vital element of Scotland’s transport network. 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 practice.”
In 2019, HIAL’s airports welcomed almost 1.7m passengers on routes serving some of the UK’s remotest communities and providing lifeline services to residents. Recent figures have shown the airports recovering strongly from the Covid-19 pandemic, and tens of millions of pounds continue to be invested in services and infrastructure to support operations.
