Inverness to Amsterdam Air Service
Inglis Lyon, Managing Director of Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) presented an update to the Partnership on the new route from Inverness Airport to Amsterdam Schiphol that begins on
5th September. HITRANS are supporting part of the marketing costs of the new route along with HIAL, HIE, Highland Council and VisitScotland.
Whisky Logistics
Caledonia Solutions/MVA outlined the Whisky Logistics Study. With 85% of all Scotch malt whisky produced in our area, the product is of vital importance to the Highlands and Islands’ economy. A tool has been created to forecast the impact on the transport network of an increase in production. Modal shift from road to rail and sea were also considered. A working group is to be set up by the Freight Transport Association to help facilitate this.
High Speed Rail
The Partnership approved the response to the Transport Select Committee on High Speed Rail. It makes the point that HS is unlikely to be competitive to the north of Scotland but that modal shift from air to the new line from the Central Belt will free up slots for regional air services from Aberdeen and Inverness to London.
Scotland Europa Membership
HITRANS agreed to take a joint subscription with SEStran and TACTRAN to Scotland Europa. Linked to Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Development International, its role is to promote Scotland in
Europe. The RTPs hope that membership will help us to build on our success in accessing ERDF funding by providing an interface that identifies projects and partners across Europe.
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Traveline Scotland Blackberry Smart Phone App
An update was received on progress with Traveline Scotland Smartphone applications. The Blackberry App is being funded by HITRANS and SPT from the START ERDF project. This App is
scheduled for launch in October and it will be showcased at the START Trans-national forum in Lisbon. The Traveline Scotland Android App was launched in May.
European Commission Aviation Consultation
The Board approved their response to the European Commission’s consultation Review of the Community Guidelines on Financing Airports and Start Up Aid to Airlines Departing from Regional
Airports. The review could have far reaching implications on how airports, existing air services and new air routes are funded in Scotland. Given the lifeline nature of air services in the Highlands and
Islands this consultation was recognised as very important. Our response has been closely coordinated with those of HIE and HIAL.
TransTourism
View Marketing presented their analysis of the target market for the Giant Puffin itinerary planning project, following consultation with transport operators and stakeholders. Style and branding has
also been developed.
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