Shetland to Bergen service facing cutbacks after drop in passenger numbers

The thrice weekly Flybe/Loganair Shetland to Bergen service is facing cutbacks after an unexpected drop in passenger numbers this summer.

Loganair has admitted bookings have failed to meet expectations and that the number of flights on the route, which runs from June to August, may have to be reduced next year to reflect the fall in demand.

The service was increased from two days a week to three this summer, on Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, following a buoyant summer season last year.

Loganair insisted the route was still viable and that some flights to and from Norway would run next year, although it refused to divulge how many.

A spokesman for Loganair said: “We’re pleased with the results of the Shetland to Bergen route in our second year of operation.

“There’s always room for improvement, particularly as we have increased our service to three flights this year and our passenger numbers haven’t quite grown at the same pace.

“However, we’re confident that going forward the route will remain a permanent fixture within our network.”