Scottish Government ministers could hold talks with Eastern Airways over the cancellation of flights between Stornoway and Aberdeen.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon raised the prospect of an intervention by ministers after the issue was raised by Western Isles MSP Alasdair Allan.
Eastern Airways has argued it is no longer viable to run the service and that passengers with bookings beyond Monday will be offered a refund.
At first minister’s questions in Holyrood yesterday, Mr Allan said: “The first minister will be aware that Eastern Airways recently cancelled its Stornoway to Aberdeen service, with effect from tomorrow.
“What more can the Scottish Government and its agencies do to ensure the economic viability of air services to and from the Western Isles, particularly for those of my constituents who work in the oil and gas sectors?”
Ms Sturgeon responded: “I can understand Alasdair Allan’s concerns about that.
“We have to ensure that connectivity between all our islands — including those in Alasdair Allan’s constituency — and the mainland encourages sustainability, both economically and in a range of other ways.
“I am happy to ask the cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity to engage with him and with the airline to see whether there is more the Scottish Government can and should do to address his concerns.”