Eastern Airways to restore Aberdeen to Wick John O' Groats flights
FLIGHTS between Aberdeen and Wick are set to return.
From April 11, twice daily flights will restore a vital link between Aberdeen and Caithness, which was shelved by Covid for two years.
Eastern Airways, who previously served Wick John O' Groats Airport between 2001 and 2019 has been given a three year contract to operate the flights.
Transport Scotland and Highland Council have worked together to bring back the flights, which will slash commuting time from four hours to just over 30 minutes.
Vhief commercial officer at AGS Airports, Matt Hazelwood which owns Aberdeen International Airport, said: “A lot of work has been ongoing behind the scenes with a number of different organisations, and we thank everyone for all their hard work.
“This route will be warmly welcomed by those looking to travel into Aberdeen for medical appointments and onward connections.
"We look forward to welcoming passengers back to and from Wick to our terminal.”
Fares for the route will start at £39.99 for a single, including a complimentary 15kg hold bag and all taxes and charges.
From April 25, an early morning departure from Wick will also be offered on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Scottish Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said: “I welcome the announcement of the award of this contract which will see the restoration of important connectivity for Caithness.
“This service will benefit business travellers and provide visitors with a direct route to experience all that Caithness can offer.
“The Scottish Government is committed to supporting the service both through our direct contribution to the cost of the flights and our ongoing subsidy of Wick John O’Groats Airport.”
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire commuters could use the flights to benefit from Caithness's burgeoning space sector, according to Highland Council Leader Councillor Margaret Davidson.
She said: "Caithness is very much at the fore of expanding the development of future opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy and space.
"With these new opportunities comes not only supply chain benefits to the local economy but also inward migration and the creation of high value jobs."
Eastern Airways managing director Adam Wheatley said: “Helping solve vital regional connectivity is what Eastern Airways have done for twenty five years.
"Working in partnership with The Highland Council, Transport Scotland and key regional stakeholders, connecting again one of the most distant surface transport journeys in Scotland to the hub airport of Aberdeen, in a low emission aircraft fits our belief in how sustainable aviation can meet the need of the UK economy and extensive connectivity into the future.
“We welcome the approach taken by all stakeholders and partners to bring this Wick John O’Groats to Aberdeen air service back.
"Eastern Airways will support the Caithness & North Sutherland community in wider accessibility, also adding around 20 new direct and indirect jobs in supporting the service.”
Flights are now available to book now at www.easternairways.com
