SNP demands wholesale review of island lifeline flights

The Scottish National Party (SNP) has called for a “wholesale review” of lifeline air connections serving Scotland's remote island communities. Following a motion passed at the party's conference in Aberdeen, representatives are seeking a complete rethink of how island routes are protected and made more accessible.

Party members have specifically called for reforms to the Air Discount Scheme (ADS), arguing that current discounts are insufficient if base fares remain unaffordable for local residents. Proponents of the motion have urged the Scottish government to seek devolved powers to manage these connections more effectively, ensuring the transport system is designed around the needs of the people who depend on it rather than reacting only during crises.