Loganair steps in to secure Glasgow to Derry-Londonderry link

by Gráinne Connolly

Scotland’s Airline, Loganair is launching a Glasgow to Derry air service after the recent Ryanair announcement to discontinue the route.

The regional carrier, which has a long history of operating between the two cities, will commence the link on Sunday 28 October – the day after Ryanair’s service ceases.
 

The service will operate five days per week and a 33 seat Saab 340 aircraft will be used on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

A larger, 50 capacity Saab 2000 aircraft used for Sunday evening services.  

Departures will be from Glasgow at 10.55am on Mondays and Saturdays, arriving in Derry 50 minutes later at 11.45am. The return trip from Derry will take to the skies at 12.15pm.

The Thursday, Friday and Sunday services leave Glasgow at 6.55pm, with return flights leaving Northern Ireland’s second largest city at 8.15pm.

Lead-in fares for the route begin at £49.99 each way and all Loganair fares include a 20kg complimentary baggage allowance and complimentary in-flight refreshments. 

Extra flights will be added around key travel times including Christmas and New Year to meet demand.

Loganair first served Derry in April 1979, becoming the first airline to operate to City of Derry Airport at the time.

Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director at Loganair said he's delighted they're returning: 

The news has also been welcomed locally by Foyle MLA Karen Mullan: 

“The announcement by Loganair that they will commence a flight from Derry to Glasgow in October is welcome news for travellers.

“Hundreds of people travel from Derry to Glasgow on a weekly basis to study, work and for leisure.

"The decision by Ryanair to scrap the route would have created a gap, I am pleased that Loganair have taken up the route.

“Hopefully this move will encourage more airlines and travel companies to look at Derry as a destination and also help build and expand the north west transport network, tourist industry and attract more inward investment.”