A SCOTTISH airport has become the first in the UK to introduce a fleet of zero-emission electric buses to its car park operation.

Glasgow Airport has launched its three-strong fleet of all-electric battery buses, which were built in Scotland by Alexander Dennis Limited.

The buses will replace the diesel fleet used to shuttle passengers between the terminal and airport’s long-stay car park. It marks the first time the BYD ADL Enviro200EV model has been operated anywhere in Scotland, and its introduction was made possible thanks to a £450,000 Green Bus Fund support grant from Transport Scotland.

Glasgow Airport managing director Mark Johnston said he was “proud” to be the first to make the move. “The environmental benefits and considerable cost reductions associated with the introduction of these electric vehicles was very attractive.

“Moving to a full-electric bus operation cuts the carbon emissions associated with passenger travel to and from our car park from 143 tonnes per year to zero, and this significant reduction is further supported by the fact that the airport’s electricity is also supplied via renewable energy.”

The launch coincides with Scotland’s Climate Week. Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said he is “pleased” that the Scottish Government has helped fund the fleet.

“The uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles is central to meeting our climate change commitments and our goal of making Scotland’s air quality the best in Europe.”

Additionally, Matheson added, “decarbonisation and the global transition towards electric mobility provides real opportunities for sustainable economic growth.”

He said the Government will continue “work to position Scotland at the forefront of this movement and to maximise the economic opportunities afforded through innovation”.