Creative thinking is needed for route development from airports north of the border, according to a new report to the Scottish Government.
The travel industry all around the world suffered badly during the pandemic, but is now recovering strongly.
The fresh study into the recovery of sustainable aviation, travel and tourism in Scotland comes from the aviation cross-party group.
It is warning that Scotland is being left behind by foreign competitors.
The group points out that air connectivity is crucial for both individuals and businesses, with numerous high-value benefits for the economy.
It states: “Without bold forward thinking, we risk damaging Scotland’s reputation, position and influence on a global scale as well as our employment rates and economic wealth.
Strategy
“A government strategy with support and investment is required, in tandem with proactive, courageous, collaborative thinking which places route development, connectivity and sustainability at its core rather than applying pre-Brexit, pre-pandemic thinking to a post-Brexit, post-pandemic world.
“Scotland is currently being left behind as competitor countries across Europe change their manner of doing things.
“The time is now to apply creative thinking to route development to building connectivity from Scottish Airports which will benefit Scotland’s competitive position in an increasingly competitive global economy.”
The group says the country needs the right incentives for airlines to deliver additional routes to and from Scotland.
It adds: “After being hit by the most significant challenges of any sector during the pandemic, travel is ready to grow its workforce by providing inclusive, diverse careers with training and development opportunities for all.
“Support is required at a political level to promote the sector and to alleviate the skills challenges being experienced by the industry.”
Linking aviation and net-zero policy
The group says clear strategies for linking aviation and net-zero policy are vital.
It goes on: “Scottish airports are already playing their part in a net-zero future, demonstrating the impetus to put traditional competitiveness behind them to meet these challenges.
“Sustainable aviation fuel can and should be produced in Scotland – and should play a major role in the transition from carbon-intensive oil and gas.
“Government support for sites such as Grangemouth and St Fergus could de-risk this form of investment along with loan guarantees and green bonds.
“Scotland is also well placed as a test bed for the development of hydrogen and electric flight - and research should be accelerated.
“We are an island nation with 93 inhabited island communities – perfect for pioneering an island-hopping electric aircraft.”
Major contributor
Liz Cameron, chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “Aviation is a major contributor to global economic prosperity. The sector is unmatched in its role in connecting economies, people, and cultures which drives economic growth, job creation and exports.
“Scotland’s aviation sector has weathered recent crises and is emerging stronger, demonstrating the long-term resilience of its businesses and people.
"Looking ahead, the industry needs unequivocal political support which champions the sector’s growth potential and its critical position in driving Scotland’s economic success.
"The business community stands ready to work in partnership with the Scottish and UK governments to transform these recommendations into reality.”