Airline accepts bookings as mystery investor talks go on

A TROUBLED Scottish airline has resumed taking bookings until the end of this month as it seeks a new investor to secure its long-term future.

Highland Airways' customers were prevented from making reservations last week, when the company revealed it was facing "difficult trading", exacerbated by the severe weather.

It told its 100 staff it was seeking an investor and hoped to make an announcement by the weekend. It is believed workers have not been paid last month's wages.

Talks continued with the mystery investors yesterday, with several parties said to be interested in the airline which provides lifeline services to some islands.

A company spokesman said: "The company is making good progress in its discussions with a potential new partner, who will bring strong synergies and new opportunities to the business.

"This development presents the airline with a very promising and timely means to address current difficulties."

The company said it was now accepting bookings on all scheduled flights until the end of February. Bookings beyond that point were not currently open, but would be released as soon as possible.