The Isle of Man Government has worked with Loganair to make travel for students easier and more affordable.
Next month will see many Isle of Man students starting or returning to university in the UK and further afield. Due to the current border restrictions in place, journeys by car and ferry will require travellers to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return to the Isle of Man. This is likely to make the traditional trip of taking family members to university impractical.
Working with the Isle of Man Government, Loganair has introduced new student fares on the airline’s routes from the Isle of Man to Liverpool, Manchester and London City with immediate effect.
The new student fares – which can be booked as one-way or return journeys – include an enhanced checked baggage allowance of up to 30kgs which can be split across multiple items, a discount from the normal fare levels, and extra flexibility to change travel dates without incurring extra charges.
It is hoped that the enhancements to air travel with Loganair will mean that this is seen as a practical alternative for student travel.
Connecting flights are available to both Dublin and Belfast from a range of UK airports, although the Isle of Man Government has not been able to negotiate preferential terms with the airlines providing these.
Courier firms have also been contacted regarding the shipping of personal possessions to places of study in the UK and Ireland, and an updated list of those available has been provided on the Student Awards webpage.
Welcoming the move, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allison MHK, said:
'I know many of our students and their parents have had concerns about travelling to university for the start of the new academic year. I hope these practical arrangements will help make this much easier and more affordable.'
Minister for Infrastructure, Tim Baker MHK, added:
'We have been working with a range of airlines to ensure that throughout the health emergency our critical transport links were maintained and protected. I am glad that we are able to help our students start the next phase of their education across or go back to their course to continue their studies.'
The special student fares can be booked by contacting Loganair on 0333 800 2855. Proof of student eligibility such as a college or university placement offer letter may be required when booking. Details of the fares can be found on the airline’s website at www.loganair.co.uk/fares/for-students/.
Loganair took over operating the Isle of Man’s services to Liverpool and Manchester in March following the collapse of previous operator Flybe. More recently, it has been confirmed that Loganair will be assuming responsibility for the Isle of Man to London City air link from 1 September.
