Flybe has announced an end to its franchise agreement with Scottish airline Loganair, which will now operate under its own brand.

The Glasgow Airport-based company has flown lifeline routes throughout the Highlands and Islands for 24 years.

From 1993 to 2007, it operated under British Airways franchise and since then it has been under FlyBe franchise.

The current agreement comes to an end on August 31, 2017, and will not be renewed.

Flybe and Loganair are hoping to continue working together past this date but Loganair will operate in its own right.

The company says it will provide more than 1000 flights a week on 46 routes, including the key routes through the Highlands and Islands.

Peter Simpson, chief executive of Loganair's parent company Airline Investments, said: "Today's announcement is a major milestone in the 54-year history of Loganair.

"Although Loganair has flown as a franchise carrier for larger airlines over the last 24 years, there is still a huge level of recognition and affinity for the Loganair name throughout Scotland and beyond.

"We believe the time is right for Scotland's airline to now spread its wings once again and are delighted to be introducing a bold new corporate identity to accompany this important move."

Customers will be able to book flights as usual and a new reservation system is due to come into place next spring.