Air Discount Scheme extended

A scheme which subsidises air fares for residents in some of Scotland’s most remote communities has been renewed and extended so more people can benefit.

Support for the Air Discount Scheme (ADS), which provides eligible travellers with a discount of 50% on core air fares, has been renewed until 31 December 2020.

From 1 April, the scheme is being extended to cover the whole of the Caithness area and further parts of Sutherland. Students studying in the eligible areas, but whose main residence is elsewhere, will also be included in the scheme.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said:

“We know the Air Discount Scheme is very popular and plays a vital role in keeping our remote communities connected, so I’m delighted we can announce its renewal and extension.

“The eligibility area has been widened to include the entire Caithness postcode, as well as further parts of Sutherland, so more people than ever will be able to access cheaper air fares.

“We also want to encourage people to come to these areas to study, so students at the seven colleges within the eligible areas will now also be able to sign up to the scheme.

“This announcement directly tackles the issue of high air fares in the Highlands and Islands and underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to supporting our remote communities.”