Orkney gets new plane for inter-island services
Council leader Heather Woodbridge - with First Minister John Swinney and chief executive Oliver Reid - has welcomed the news
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A new aircraft is to start serving Orkney's inter-island routes, alongside a new vessel for the internal ferry network.
The third Islander aircraft is aimed at boosting capacity and reliability for the service.
The council is also set to purchase a landing craft to provide flexible support for the ferry network, and a runway roller/compactor to improve the maintenance of airfields.
The transport investment has been backed with £2m of one-off funding from the Scottish government.
The proposals were agreed by councillors earlier this month.
The council will now consult with communities on the inter-island air services timetable based on a three-aircraft operation.
Council leader Heather Woodbridge said it was an "historic moment" for Orkney Islands Council in efforts to meet connectivity challenges.
'Resilience for years ahead'
"This investment represents a vital step forward in securing the future of our lifeline transport services," she said.
"We're not only addressing current challenges but also building resilience for the years ahead."
Finance Secretary Shona Robison added: "We recognised the unique challenges faced by island communities and the importance of targeted support to improve connectivity for people in Orkney."