Pole survey attracting thousands

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A major survey into the demand for a new direct air service linking Aberdeen and Poland is drawing to a close - and has attracted thousands of responses.

The BBC Scotland news website revealed the research last month.

More than 2,500 people have so far responded online and also via paper copies of the survey.

The survey at www.szkocja24.com and the English version of the site www.polesinscotland.com closes on Saturday.

An estimated 25,000 Poles live in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

There is still time for people to make their views known and once we have collated the results, they will be shared with several airlines Penny GodfreyAberdeen Airport

Visitors to the site have been answering questions about whether they would use a direct service between Poland and Aberdeen, which Polish airports they would prefer to use, and what determines their flying habits.

Paper copies of the survey made available at a number of Aberdeen venues have also proved popular.

Aberdeen Airport marketing manager Penny Godfrey said: "The response to the survey has been fantastic and highlights that there is indeed a great deal of interest in a direct service between Aberdeen and Poland.

"There is still time for people to make their views known and once we have collated the results, they will be shared with several airlines who will determine the feasibility of a direct route between the two destinations."

'Before it closes'

Pawel Glowacki, project manager at www.szkocja24.com, said: "I am pleased that the research has generated such a huge response and would urge anyone that has not completed the survey to do so before it closes on 15 December.

"It is important for Poles living in the North East to express their opinion about the potential for direct flights to Poland, and to make it clear that there is a high demand for such a service."

BBC Scotland revealed in August that airport managers were exploring the possibility of introducing direct flights from Aberdeen to Poland.

Both the airport and BAA continue to have discussions with airlines and potential providers of such a service.

Meanwhile, Aberdeen Airport is looking for members of the public to take part in "Open Air" discussions - to share their views on the airport's performance with senior management.

The first Open Air event was held this week, and anyone interested in taking part can call 01224 725757.