A NEW study on the reintroduction of air services to Skye claims there would be significant demand with considerable economic benefit to the island.

However, both the airlines and the airport are likely to need a public subsidy, according to the feasibility study. It recommends a steering group, including the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland, examines its findings.

It was conducted for public agencies assessing the viability of services to and from the Central Belt. The last service between the island and Glasgow was operated by Loganair and was withdrawn in 1988.

The study found the 19-seater Twin Otters, Trislanders and Dornier 228 aircraft, would all be able to operate within the 750m length restrictions of the current airstrip at Broadford.

But a runway of 1200-1300 yards would be required in order to accommodate available aircraft with 30-35 seats, which would cost more than £15 million.

Such a service might require an investment of around £2.3m to construct new facilities.

The report, which was commissioned by The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and HITRANS, said: "It is likely assistance, both financially and in terms of marketing, would be needed to attract airlines to establish regular scheduled air services to Skye."