Loganair increase air fares on back of Iran war
Fares on Loganair – already the subject of dismay and criticism after sharp rises over the past couple of years – are being pushed up again under the guise of increased fuel costs.
Although other airlines have not introduced surcharges in response to rise in fuel costs since the American attack on Iran, Loganair has raised the fuel duty surcharge on no fewer than four occasions.
Fliers on Loganair’s island routes have seen the rate increase from £3.45 to £7.45, then £9.45 and now £13.50.
The airline said it had added a “small, incremental surcharge in response to the rise in fuel costs”. It said the charge was “constantly under review to ensure it's proportionate”.
The surcharge does not apply to routes protected by “public service obligations”, including those between Glasgow and Barra, Tiree and Campbeltown.
The airline introduced a £3.45 surcharge in 2022 because of soaring oil prices, which was supposed to be removed after prices fell. Loganair never did this. Now, far from removing it, they have continued to increase it.
Other airlines have said that there is no need to increase charges because their fuel prices are hedged over the next year. The Gazette has asked Loganair why they are in a different position.
With non-discounted single fares now often in excess of £300, the issue has become significant for businesses which are not allowed to use the Air Discount Scheme since the Scottish Government changed the rules, as well as for the tourist trade and island exiles faced with urgent travel.
The fuel surcharges affect all travellers including those who are eligible for the ADS. This has drawn a suggestion from the Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael who said: “Loganair should explain to their customers why this is necessary when other airlines have been able to hedge against it.
“If extra fuel costs are to be treated as permanent then it would surely make sense for them to build that into their ticket price rather than imposing a surcharge. That way, at least island customers would be able to get the 50 per cent reduction through the ADS.”