Lothian Buses’ airport service to use 12 new Wrightbus Gemini 3 double-deckers
Holiday-makers flying via Edinburgh Airport will benefit from a new fleet of buses that are being put into service in time for the busy summer season.
The 12 new Wrightbus Gemini 3 Airlink-branded vehicles which will be in service from July 1 have been designed to complement the modern feel of the city’s tram service, which operates along the same corridor. They are operated by Lothian Buses.
The new vehicles replace Euro 5 Wrightbus Eclipse Gemini 2-bodied Volvo B9TLs.
The launch of the new vehicles comes on the back of a successful first year for Edinburgh Trams and an important time for transport in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas, with the Queensferry Crossing set to open next year, the new Edinburgh Gateway station, which will link passengers from the Fife line and North East Scotland to the airport, scheduled for completion in 2016 and Edinburgh Airport’s significant expansion.
Jim McFarlane, General Manager and Chairman of Lothian Buses, said: “With the ongoing expansion and success of Edinburgh Airport, and demand for public transport increasing now is an excellent time to invest in an upgraded fleet. Just as air passengers’ increased expectations are being met by development at the airport, we too need to keep pace and these new buses will provide improved facilities for all travellers.”
Lesley Hinds, Chairman of Transport for Edinburgh, said: “This investment in Airlink further improves what was already an excellent service. With the start of the summer season and Edinburgh’s fantastic line up of festivals and events, Transport for Edinburgh is well placed to provide passengers with two first class options to get into the heart of the city and beyond.”
John Watson, Chief Commercial Officer at Edinburgh Airport, said: “Edinburgh has a superb public transport network. We see thousands of passengers from all over the world choose to take advantage of the Airlink service every week. The new fleet of vehicles will enhance the passenger experience, making their journey to and from the airport more relaxing and memorable.”
The Airlink 100 express bus service operates as a shuttle between Edinburgh Airport and Waverley Bridge (near Princes Street and the main rail and bus stations), with designated stops en route.
