LOGANAIR gave Glasgow Airport a very special gift to mark its 50th birthday celebrations.

The newly christened ‘Spirit of Glasgow’ aircraft was presented to Amanda McMillan, Glasgow Airport’s managing director by Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair’s newly appointed managing director.

Commissioned to coincide with Glasgow Airport’s 50th anniversary, the Saab 340 aircraft made the switch from a white colour scheme to adopt an eye-catching purple exterior.

The symbolic ‘Spirit of Glasgow’ badge was also emblazoned on each side with the purple tone which matching the branding of Loganair’s franchise partner, Flybe.

Jonathan Hinkles said: “Glasgow Airport has played an important role in Loganair’s history and has been the base of our headquarters since operations began.

“With these long-held links, it’s an honour to unveil the ‘Spirit of Glasgow’ on the year of the airport’s anniversary.

“Loganair currently operates 12 routes through Glasgow Airport and we look forward to continuing this successful relationship.”

Glasgow Airport is celebrating its golden anniversary in 2016. It was officially opened by Her Majesty the Queen on 27 June 1966. Last month, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited Glasgow Airport to mark its 50-year anniversary.