Cheaper flights on the horizon for family and friends of Fair Isle and Foula residents

FAMILY and friends of people living in Fair Isle and Foula could be set for cheaper flights to and from the islands as part of a proposed new trial.

Members of transport partnership ZetTrans are being recommended to approve the interim pilot, which would run from 1 April to 31 March next year, at a meeting on Thursday.

The suggested policy would see eligible resident households on each island be able to nominate up to six named individuals who would be entitled to travel at the islander fare on the relevant route.

The current fares for a return adult trip is £112.75 for standard travel and £55.20 for residents of Fair Isle and Foula (the islander fare). An increase of 5.3 per cent is being proposed for 2026/27.

The idea of a discounted fare for family and friends has been spoken about for years, and it is supported by the two island communities.

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A report to ZetTrans members said it is deemed that the cost to friends and family members travelling to the islands can act as a “barrier to maintaining important personal and community links”.

It is proposed that nominations be made in advance, and that someone may only be nominated by one household at any given time.

ZetTrans may also withdraw eligibility in cases of “misuse or material misrepresentation”.

The scheme would be monitored during the financial year and would inform how fares are set in 2027/28.