The Scottish Government has unveiled a new aviation strategy that aims to cut emissions while increasing flight connections, drawing criticism from opposition parties and environmental groups. The plan, released by Transport Scotland, emphasises the importance of the aviation sector but insists on reducing its environmental impact to meet net-zero targets by 2045.
Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie dismissed the strategy as 'hot air and environmental window dressing', arguing that the only way to reduce aviation damage is to cut demand for flights. He accused the SNP of 'pretending they can get lower emissions with more flights'.
Airport operators, including AGS Airports which runs Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports, called for 'concrete actions' to improve connectivity and cut emissions, warning that Scotland must not be put at a 'competitive disadvantage'. The strategy includes a review of the air discount scheme for Highlands and Islands airports, which could increase passenger costs.
Scottish Labour's Daniel Johnson said the industry would be disappointed by the lack of ambition and coherent deliverables, particularly on decarbonisation. Scottish Liberal Democrat Willie Rennie criticised the government for dodging its commitment to support a third runway at Heathrow, calling it irresponsible given the airport's emissions.
Connectivity Minister Jim Fairlie defended the strategy, stating it sets out the strategic importance of aviation and specific actions to reduce emissions while enjoying its benefits. The plan aims to cut aviation emissions by the 2030s compared to 2019 levels, but provides no details on Heathrow expansion or air passenger duty powers.
