TRANSPORT Minister Humza Yousaf has officially opened the £7.85 million newly refurbished Sumburgh Airport on Shetland.
The regional Scottish airport operator Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (HIAL), made the multi-million-pound investment to create larger security screening areas and make upgrades to the main departure lounge over the past three years to turn it into a faster, smoother airport experience for passengers.
Yousaf unveiled a specially commissioned restin chair in the main airport concourse. It is the traditional bench, or settle, which most homes in Shetland had in the past to offer to visiting guests.
The airport’s version was hand made in oak by local crafts business Paparwark Furniture. Yousaf is pictured sharing it with HIAL charmain Mike Cantlay.
Sumburgh Airport is the main airport serving Shetland. It is situated approximately 25 miles south of Lerwick.
Yousaf said: “I’m very pleased to be part of the official opening of these fantastic new facilities, marking the completion of the second phase of improvement work at Sumburgh Airport.
“It plays a vital role for the oil and gas industry, as well as Shetland’s wider connectivity, and has seen a significant rise in passenger numbers and aircraft movements in recent years.”
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