AGENTS have warned that the Government’s decision to
allow operators to charge extra for Scottish flights could drive more
holidaymakers to low-cost carriers.
Scottish agents say customers already book packages
from airports such as Manchester to avoid paying the supplement. But they fear
the Office of Fair Trading’s decision could unfairly force more consumers to
take no-frills flights to Luton or Stansted to connect with package flights.
They hit out at the decision – which followed
complaints over supplements charged by the Big Four on flights out of Scotland
– as unfair on customers. Although many agents say they understand the need for
a supplement, they are critical of the amount charged, which can be over £100.
Ken McNab, managing director of The Travel Company in
Edinburgh, said: “Customers are being driven to third-party carriers because
it’s cheaper.
“I think the OFT’s decision is misguided. I do understand a difference in landing fees
of £30 or £40 but I cannot recognise a difference of more than £100.”
David Geddes, owner of Geddes Travelcenter in
Greenock, agreed certain customers would always travel further rather than pay
the supplement. He said: “As far as the Scots are concerned, the supplements
are excessive to say the least. For any agent to justify it to the client is
very difficult.”
Operators, who welcomed the Government’s backing,
maintained supplements were based on the extra distance to the destination and
less demand.