New Loganair chief

SCOTTISH airline Loganair has appointed a new chief operating officer to replace Jonathan Hinkles, who has held the post for the past three and a half years.

Philip Preston joins the company from CalMac Ferries where he was managing director until late 2011.

His new job will give him responsibility for a team of 380 staff throughout the hisghlands and islands, including flight and cabin crew, as well as engineering and ground staff.

Loganair is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. It operates 20 aircraft on 42 routes, including the recently introduced Glasgow to Newquay and Glasgow to Leeds Bradford service.

Loganair chief executive David Harrison thanked Mr Hinkles for his “sterling service” and said he was delighted to welcome Mr Preston to the company.

“His extensive knowledge of the communities which Loganair serves throughout the highlands and islands will undoubtedly be valuable as the company continues to expand and progress.”