New operator to take over 'lifeline' Wick to Aberdeen flights

A new operator has been announced to take over a public service obligation (PSO) "lifeline" air route between Wick and Aberdeen.

Air Charter Scotland will take over the flights from 12 January after the previous operator, Eastern Airways, entered administration last month.

Highland Council launched an emergency procurement process on 18 November. The local authority and Scottish government fund the subsidised route.

Flights will operate six days a week using a Wick-based 18-seat Jetstream 32 aircraft.

Highland Council said the new contract would offer an improved timetable, with early morning departures from Wick from Monday to Thursday.

Council leader Raymond Bremner said a reliable air link was key to growing the local economy, improving connectivity and tackling challenges relating to depopulation.

Connectivity Minister Jim Fairlie welcomed the restart of the service.

He said the Scottish government recognised the economic and social importance of rural connectivity.

Last week, Highland Council said it was exploring the option of extending the contract to include flights from Wick to Edinburgh.

Transport Scotland said it was considering the business case from Highland Council on a future Wick to Aberdeen/Edinburgh route and would confirm next steps in due course.

Ticket prices for one-way journeys on the Air Charter Scotland flights range from the cheapest available at £74.99 to £119.99.

Flights will also leave Wick on Fridays in the early evening, with return available late afternoon on Sundays to allow for weekend leisure and commuting.