From the cockpit to the podium: How one Loganair pilot will play a pivotal role in this year’s Island Games

Colin McAllister, a long-time Loganair pilot and proud Orkney resident, will not just be flying passengers within the islands - he’ll also be presenting medals at the archery and swimming events, representing Loganair, the Official Airline Partner of this year’s Games.

For Colin, the Island Games are more than a logistical operation - they’re personal.

It was only when I moved to Orkney, that I became aware of the Island Games, when they were hosted in Shetland,” he says

That was two decades ago. Now, to see them come full circle and land here, in a place I call home, is really special. It’s a proud moment for Orkney, for Loganair, and for me personally.

Born in Glasgow but based in Orkney for the past 21 years, Colin has always been immersed in community sport. A former sprinter and athletics club coaching volunteer, he’s been poolside at countless swim meets, often with a stopwatch in hand. His daughter, Mia, swam competitively for Orkney, even making waves internationally.

Mia was the last swimmer to win a medal for Orkney just six years ago in Gibraltar. She still swims, although a shoulder surgery has prevented her from intensive training. I think there’s some unfinished business there,

he says.

That personal history makes this summer’s Games even more meaningful.

I’ve been on the stopwatch, poolside duty, all of it. This time I’ll be at the awards’ podium. It’s an honour to be there with these young athletes at a moment they’ll never forget.

As the Official Airline Partner, Loganair plays a crucial role in connecting the 24 Island communities taking part in the Games. From Shetland to Guernsey, teams and fans are flying into Orkney, and Colin will have a front-row seat.

It will be brilliant seeing that energy onboard. I have no doubt there will be a mixture of some of the athletes being totally in the zone, while others will be buzzing, chatting, laughing, excited. Not to mention the spectators who I’m sure will be bringing energy by the bucket-load.

You know something special is happening, and we get to help make it possible.

The logistics are no small feat, but Colin says it’s worth every flight hour.

Connectivity is vital for these islands - not just during the Games but every day. Events like this show how important it is to maintain strong, reliable links. It’s about more than just travel - it’s about community, culture, and shared moments.

 Colin hopes Loganair’s involvement sends a clear message: that the airline isn’t just a transport provider, but a community partner.

We live and work in the places we serve. This isn’t a job - it’s part of who we are. Supporting the Games is a way for us to give back to the people who fly with us every day.

And it’s not just about medals. Colin believes the Island Games are set to leave a lasting legacy.

Kids want a taste of it. Parents get inspired. It brings the community closer and makes people believe in what’s possible.

Orkney will host the 20th International Island Games in its landmark 40th year since it first began, joining other host alumni including Bermuda, Gotland, Gibraltar and Guernsey. The Games, taking place from 12-18 July 2025, will bring together athletes from 24 island communities to compete in 12 sports namely archery, athletics, badminton, cycling, football, golf, gymnastics, lawn bowls, sailing, squash, swimming and triathlon.
 
Luke Farajallah, Chief Executive Officer of Loganair, said:

We are incredibly proud to be the Official Airline Partner for the Orkney 2025 Island Games. As the UK’s leading regional airline, we have a deep commitment to serving island communities - connecting people, places, and passions.

Supporting the Games is a natural extension of that mission. These events not only showcase athletic talent, but also celebrate resilience, teamwork, and the shared spirit of the islands. We’re honoured to play our part in bringing that to life.