Loganair Expands With New Southampton Base
Loganair is set to further expand its regional network by opening its tenth operating base at Southampton Airport, a move that underscores the carrier’s commitment to enhancing connectivity across the United Kingdom. The new base, scheduled to launch in October 2025, will see the deployment of two ATR72-600s, which will form the backbone of Loganair’s renewed presence in southern England.
The expansion at Southampton comes at a time when the airline is actively seeking to optimize its route network and streamline operations. In addition to establishing the new base, Loganair will introduce a new route connecting Southampton and Manchester. This new service is designed to tap into the growing demand for regional travel, facilitating transfers between key hubs and providing an efficient alternative to more congested major airports.
Furthermore, Loganair has announced plans to increase capacity to Edinburgh by replacing its aging fleet of E145 regional jets with modern ATR72-600s. This fleet upgrade will not only improve fuel efficiency and passenger comfort but will also enable the airline to offer enhanced services on the route. The updated aircraft will provide better connectivity for passengers transferring from Southampton via Manchester to Scottish destinations such as Inverness, Aberdeen Dyce, and even the Isle of Man. At the same time, the airline is set to launch an additional route between Manchester and Exeter, further bolstering its domestic network and offering more travel options to its customers.
Currently, Loganair operates a diverse fleet of 36 aircraft, which includes a mix of turboprops and regional jets. The carrier’s fleet features four ATR42-500s, two ATR42-600s, four ATR72-500(F)s, nine ATR72-600s, one DHC-6-300, two DHC-6-400s, twelve E145s, and two BN-2s. Its ATR72-600s are already deployed across various bases including Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow International, the Isle of Man, and Kirkwall. This balanced fleet enables Loganair to serve a wide range of regional routes with efficiency and reliability.
The strategic decision to open a new base in Southampton is a significant development for Loganair, as it aims to boost operational flexibility and meet the evolving travel demands of its passengers. The new base is expected to serve as a vital hub for linking southern England with the broader regional network, thereby reducing travel times and easing congestion at larger airports. The addition of two ATR72-600s will enhance capacity and enable the airline to offer a more robust schedule, particularly during the peak summer season when demand for domestic flights tends to surge.
Looking ahead, Loganair intends to grow its fleet to 55 aircraft by 2029, demonstrating its long-term commitment to regional aviation. The expansion in Southampton and the subsequent route enhancements are key components of the airline’s growth strategy, aimed at maintaining its leadership position in the competitive regional travel market.
With these developments, Loganair is well poised to deliver improved service, greater connectivity, and enhanced travel experiences for its passengers. As the airline continues to invest in modernizing its fleet and expanding its network, passengers can look forward to more efficient and comfortable journeys across the United Kingdom.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com