Kirkwall’s air traffic control service was temporarily closed because of unforeseen staffing issues, disrupting a limited number of flights operated by Loganair. The closure affected services on Wednesday and led to passengers requiring welfare support and, in some cases, overnight accommodation.
Hial said the closure could not be arranged around the published flight programme on this occasion. The airport operator advised passengers to seek the latest information from their airline rather than relying solely on the scheduled timetable.
“Wherever possible, we try to plan such closures around our flight schedule but regrettably this has not been possible on this occasion, and a limited number of flights are affected.”
Hial also apologised for the disruption and asked passengers to contact their airline directly. The operator’s advice was directed at travellers whose services were affected by the temporary loss of air traffic control cover.
Loganair arranges additional service
Loganair confirmed that its operations were affected. The airline said it had arranged welfare support and overnight accommodation for passengers caught up in the disruption on Wednesday.
To help clear the affected travel demand, Loganair arranged an additional Edinburgh–Kirkwall return service. The extra flight was due to depart Edinburgh at 15:30. The airline did not describe the service as a permanent timetable change; it was arranged in response to the air traffic control closure.
- Kirkwall air traffic control was temporarily closed because of staffing issues.
- A limited number of flights were affected, according to Hial.
- Loganair provided welfare support and overnight accommodation for passengers affected on Wednesday.
- An additional Edinburgh–Kirkwall return service was scheduled to depart Edinburgh at 15:30.
Loganair said the closure was outside its control and apologised to customers. The airline thanked affected passengers for their patience while it worked to move them to their destinations.
“We apologise for the inconvenience caused, which is outwith Loganair’s control, and thank our customers for their patience and understanding while we work to get them to their destinations.”
Passengers travelling through Kirkwall were advised to check directly with Loganair for the status of their service. The disruption highlights the operational effect that staffing availability in airport air traffic control can have on regional connectivity, particularly when a closure cannot be aligned with the flight schedule.
