Tibbert called for Scotland to become the “test bed” for new types of aircraft which use hydrogen and electric power, as well as to help “fill the gap” in SAF production.
“As Scotland moves away from carbon intensive oil and gas production, sites such as Grangemouth and St Fergus offer excellent options to produce SAF and establish Scotland as a leading producer,” said Tibbert during his speech to the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association annual dinner in Glasgow.
“Government support would be required to derisk investments in these facilities through government-backed loan guarantees as well as green bonds, for example.
“Scotland can also become a test bed for hydrogen flight and electric flight. With our regional and short-haul aircraft we’re a viable proving ground for island-hopping electric aircraft which can benefit many communities here and around the world.”
Tibbert added that a “firm policy framework and funding” was needed to show how the country can achieve the Scottish government’s aim of decarbonising internal flights by 2040.
“As a sector, we proved we can all work together through the tough times we have all faced – now let’s use this collective power to think big and deliver on a grand, global scale,” he urged.
Tibbert also emphasised how agents have shown their value to customers during the recent “booking boom” for the trade.
“Leisure or corporate, homeworking or retail – it is glaringly evident that customers will continue to demand an expert agent to shape travel plans,” he said.
“Our agents are the conduit between client and experience – and the travel agent community will go from strength-to-strength in the months that lie ahead. Never underestimate the value of a great agent.”
