Islanders have been given a financial boost by news that a scheme giving discount air fares has been increased.
Transport minister Derek Mackay has announced that from January, the maximum discount will be increased to 50%.
And the scheme will be extended until 2019.
And there was further good news, as Mr Mackay announced that the fares on government-subsidised ferries would be frozen during 2016/17.
The move was widely welcomed throughout the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland last night.
Mr Mackay said: “The Scottish Government continues to do everything we can to support communities in the Highlands and Islands and measures such as the Air Discount Scheme (ADS) and freezing ferry fares make a real difference for local residents.
“The scheme has proved hugely popular with users, as it directly tackles the issue of high air fares in the Highlands and Islands.
“By increasing the discount offered to the maximum allowed we are aiming to make sure these communities remain connected.”
Shetland Council leader Gary Robinson said he was “very pleased” with announcement, adding: “While this is a major step forwards, much still needs to be done to secure reliable and affordable transport links to the islands.
“We will continue to lobby at all levels of government and in Europe in order to achieve this.”
Orkney MSP Liam McArthur also welcomed the announcement but called for the discount to be extended to isles based businesses, who had their access to the grant cut.
He said: “This cut has increased costs for local businesses in Orkney at a time when the need to remain competitive with counterparts on mainland Scotland has never been greater”.
Councillor Angus Campbell, leader of Western Isles Council, said: “This is good news for people in the islands.
“An increase in the ADS to 50% is a significant saving for those using air services to and from the islands.”