Scottish aviation numbers reach record highs despite disruption in Middle East

Air passenger numbers in Scotland has reached a record high over the past few months, despite ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

New data from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) shows passenger numbers travelling through Scottish airports rose by 4% between April and June, compared to last year.

Major Scottish airport each saw a noticeable uptick in passenger numbers with Edinburgh at 5%, Glasgow at 3% and Inverness at 8%.

Glasgow Prestwick is also building a reputation as a cargo hub with a huge 197% increase in cargo tonnage.

Europe remains the most frequented travel destination for Scottish travellers, with travel to Faro and Malaga increasing by 13%.

The top destinations for Scottish travellers were Amsterdam, Dublin, Palma de Mallorca, Alicante, Malaga, Paris, Tenerife, Faro, Antalya and Barcelona.

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “This is a busy time for Scotland’s airports, and it’s great to see a strong performance across the Scottish market, with increased passenger numbers and cargo volumes.

“The Scottish Government fully recognises the importance of good connectivity, which benefits Scotland’s economy and enables flows of trade, investment, labour, knowledge and tourism visitors.”

Ross Lydall, spokesperson for CAA, said: “Demand for flying remains high, as Scottish passengers adjust their travel plans around global events.

“The growth in passengers travelling to and from Scottish airports was higher than that seen across the wider UK.

“These results remind us of highlight the sector’s resilience and hard work and keep the UK on course for another record-breaking year.”

Across the UK, passenger numbers have narrowly increased, but the destination distribution is vastly different due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Passenger number have increased by 11% to China, and 307% to Pakistan, while those travelling to Dubai halved.

While traveller numbers may be up some are warning the potential impacts of increased air travel.

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland has repeated calls for “hefty extra charges for private jet-setters”.

Fraser Sutherland said: “This rise in air passengers and cargo flying through Scotland’s airports comes with a heavy price tag for the planet.

“After this summer’s scorching heat, with extra deaths, droughts and devastating wildfires coming as a direct result, this is particularly worrying.

“Flying is the most climate-polluting mode of transport we can use, further fuelling climate breakdown.

“We need to see fewer air journeys and substantial penalties for the wealthy minority pumping out the biggest share of emissions.

“Stop Climate Chaos Scotland is pushing for hefty extra charges for private jet-setters and increasing fees for frequent flyers.

“Mega-rich travellers leave a disproportionately large trail of ‘luxury’ climate pollution behind them as they zip across the world in private planes, and they should pay for their privilege.

“The Scottish Government has already set out plans for an Air Departure Tax and a Private Jet Tax, but we want to see private jets taxed at least 10 times above the rate of ordinary passengers and the levy to be brought forward to next year.

“The cash raised can be used to fund action to curb climate breakdown and tackle inequality.”