Loganair continues its fleet renewal process, transitioning from SAAB aircraft to state-of-the-art ATR turboprops. The SAAB era will come to an end in early 2024, and to commemorate its farewell, the airline has organized a series of events, including a flight on the honored aircraft.
The SAAB 340 has been part of Loganair’s fleet for 24 years, and in honor of its final retirement, the airline is offering tickets for a short circuit flight and a visit to the company’s hangars at Glasgow Airport.
«We bid a fond farewell to this loyal aircraft that has been the backbone of Loganair’s fleet for over 24 years. After completing over 430,000 flights and transporting more than 8 million passengers, the Saab 340 holds a special place in Loganair’s heritage,» expresses the statement from the Scottish airline.
The event will take place on January 20, and 21, 2024. Aviation enthusiasts, as well as anyone interested, can purchase tickets for the SAAB 340 flight for 89 pounds. The visit to the company’s hangars will cost 25 pounds.
All proceeds from these two days will be donated to the charity associated with Loganair: Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
Cornerstone of Loganair
The SAAB 340 aircraft fleet was a cornerstone in Loganair’s operations for 24 years. The company operated 22 aircraft from the Swedish manufacturer, diversifying across its various variants.
These aircraft operated from the company’s base in Aberdeen Dyce (ABZ), primarily connecting airports such as Sumburgh, Kirkwall, and Edinburgh. Loganair operated all variants of the SAAB 340, from the 340A to the 2000 series, the longest version with a capacity for 50 passengers and equipped with a glass cockpit.
Loganair selected the ATR regional turboprop family to replace the SAAB 340, adding five ATR 42-500, two ATR 42-600, four ATR 72-500F, and 6 ATR 72-600 aircraft to its fleet.