And it Includes London Airport………………………………Eday

Orkney Islands Council has six island airfields situated on the  islands of Eday, North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Sanday, Stronsay, and Westray. They have been shortlisted for a national award.

The Scottish Transport Awards are about recognising excellence in transport, rewarding innovation and progress for transport initiatives which are really working and driving progress.

Entries in the Airport of the Year category had to provide evidence of excellence or significant improvement in overall performance or provision of facilities over the past 12 months.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Glasgow on June 14.

In addition to the essential level of service provided to the north isles, the nomination has recognised the significant work which has taken place over the past year or so with regards to new buildings, garages and other equipment, the provision of modern fire fighting equipment, runway resurfacing and airfield staff training.

Gavin Barr, OIC Director of Development and Infrastructure Services said:

“Orkney Islands Council is in a fairly unique position in operating council-owned airfields. Our airfields team has done a power of work over the last few years and I am delighted to see that hard work rewarded with a place at these prestigious awards.”

Graham Sinclair , Chair of the Council’s Development and Infrastructure Committee commented :

“Last year we celebrated 50 years of council-owned airfields and this shortlisting is a great way to mark that. Our isles residents depend on this lifeline service and are justifiably proud of it, with many in fact employed as airfield attendants.

“I congratulate staff on this fantastic achievement, particularly where you see the size of the airports that we have been selected against.”

 Roy Brannen, Chief Executive, Transport Scotland, said:

“These Awards are a great opportunity to recognise the contribution by our professionals in improving and enhancing Scotland’s transport networks.”