IT'S a top-flight present to mark a very special anniversary.

Airline Loganair has gifted Glasgow Airport a new plane for its 50th birthday celebrations - and it has been christened Spirit of Glasgow.

The Saab 340 aircraft was presented to Amanda McMillan, Glasgow Airport’s managing director, by Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair’s newly appointed managing director.

Mr 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.”

The first aircraft to land at Glasgow Airport was piloted by Loganair Captain Kenneth Foster, who sadly passed away in April just before the 50th anniversary.

A Cherokee 6 plane was used in a test-flight to ensure the new runway was able to pass the extensive criteria set by then Ministry of Aviation, enabling it to officially open for business on May 2, 1966.

After a gap of 50 years, it was discovered that the Cherokee 6 was still operating and being used as a skydiving aircraft by the Wingglider Flying Club based at Hibaldstow Airfield in North Lincolnshire.

The airport was reunited with the aircraft in May this year when the inaugural landing was recreated to mark the 50-year anniversary.

Ms McMillan said: “Glasgow Airport and Loganair have both enjoyed a shared history going back five decades.

“During this time we have both grown significantly and our strong and mutually-supportive relationship continues to thrive today.

“We were honoured to play our part in helping Loganair celebrate their own golden anniversary at the airport in 2012.

“Christening the aircraft The Spirit of Glasgow to mark our 50-year anniversary is a fantastic gesture and we’re grateful to Loganair for their support in this our celebratory year.”

Glasgow Airport is celebrating its golden anniversary in 2016. It was officially opened by Her Majesty the Queen on 27 June 1966.

As told in the Evening Times last month, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited Glasgow Airport to mark its 50-year anniversary.