Progress in talks between Hial and air traffic controllers over remote towers project

The air traffic control tower at Sumburgh Airport. Photo: Ronnie Robertson

Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (Hial) and the Prospect union are in talks about a possible alternative to Hial’s plans to modernise air traffic control.

Neither Hial or Prospect have said what the alternative to the project is.

Hial managing director Inglis Lyon said the company had been in talks with Prospect about finding a solution to strike action taken by air traffic controllers.

“I met with Prospect on Friday, 10th September, to discuss the implementation of our air traffic modernisation programme,” he said.

“The discussions were constructive, and we will now move forward with more detailed talks.”

Prospect’s negotiation officer David Avery said they held a “constructive meeting” with Hial on Friday.

“We have agreed to further talks to find a mutually agreeable solution to modernising air traffic control services in the Highlands and Islands.

“Prospect has agreed that there will be no further days of strike while these talks are ongoing.”