The plane journey from Papa Westray to Westray in the Orkney Islands takes just 96 seconds, covering just over a mile.  Six teenagers will have to take the Loganair service to Westray Junior High after the local ferry service was suspended.  They will be flown to and from school until the end of the year when the ferry is scheduled to return following refurbishment.

Papa Westray has a population of just 70 and no secondary school so children have to travel to Westray Junior High School.  Willie McEwen, acting head teacher, said: "We're delighted Loganair has come forward with this solution. Our children will enjoy the flying especially as, at this time of the year, it can be quite rough on the boat."  The students will fly to Westray each Tuesday and stay with host families for two nights before catching a return flight on the Thursday.

Loganair, who operate the eight-seater service, has changed its schedule to ensure the children get to school on time.  The company says the flight, with an average flight time of 96 seconds, is the shortest in the world. It can take as little as 47 seconds.  Commercial director Jonathan Hinkles said: "While it is a popular tourist route for many visitors to Scotland, it's also a vital lifeline to those residents who live, work or do business in the Orkneys and it will make all the difference to ensuring those children who live on Papa Westray can continue their schooling throughout winter."

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