Loganair has announced it is to become the first franchise partner of FlyBE, in a move that will deliver more UK and European flight connections to Scots air passengers.

The franchise agreement launches on 26 October, the day after Loganair’s current franchise deal with British Airways concludes. Loganair will also have in place a codeshare agreement with British Airways, allowing passengers to travel on BA flight numbers when connecting with British Airways flights through Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

The deal creates a unique and exciting new franchise arrangement between the airlines and offers passengers of both companies an expanded route network and greater connections.

VisitScotland area director Iain Close said:

“The improved access to Argyll and the isles that comes with FlyBE’s many European routes is exciting news, particularly as those routes so extensively cover the UK and also the important French market, where there are already two direct routes into Glasgow from Paris and La Rochelle.

“As we continue to work with tourism businesses to grow the industry by 50% by 2015, this news will be welcomed by businesses across Scotland as a significant opportunity to increase our position in key markets, especially those where Argyll’s dramatic landscapes, whisky distilleries and wildlife are amongst our most powerful draws for visitors.”