30/07/2007 06:12:07
More than 32,000 passengers used the Forth hovercraft crossing during its two-week trial, its operator has revealed.
The Forthfast service operated from 16-28 July, making 11 daily return crossings between Kirkcaldy and Portobello, on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The Stagecoach group, which ran the service, says that most journeys were full, with the average crossing running at 85% capacity.
“The two-week trial has been a major operational success. It has been incredibly informative in helping to shape a new public transport alternative that delivers what customers want,” said Robert Andrew, regional director for Stagecoach Scotland.
“The hovercraft has attracted a wide range of passengers and we have carried commuters, tourists, cyclists, wheelchair users and families with children in pushchairs. We have been particularly encouraged by the morning commuter journeys, which have risen steadily over the past two weeks, with a number operating at full capacity.”
The success of the trial surpassed the company’s expectations. It estimates that, were the service permanently introduced, it would be used by around 9,000 passengers each week and up to 470,000 a year.