Remote Scottish air route to be resurrected this week

A new carrier is set to resurrect a Scottish Highlands lifeline air route this week.

Air Charter Scotland is to operate flights between Aberdeen and Wick John O’Groats Airport from Wednesday.

The Glasgow-based carrier has engaged with Navitaire’s World Ticketing GDS to support online ticket sales with single fares staring at £74.99.

A Wick-based BAe Jetstream 32 aircraft will restore connectivity to the far north of Scotland following the failure of Eastern Airways last October.

The scheduled service is being reinstated under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) route award by The Highland Council.   

Flights will operate six times a week each way with the exception of Saturdays.

Air Charter Scotland has wet leased a Jetstream 32 from AIS Airlines of the Netherlands to commence the route.  

It is actively sourcing a second 18-seat aircraft which would go on to its UK air operators’ certificate.

Company chief operating officer Derek Thomson said: “We are looking forward to starting this important air service for the people of Caithness.  

“It is a major expansion for our successful on-demand air charter business which has successfully served the all-demanding executive aviation sector for 20 years - managing and operating high value business jets.  

“Our client focused, attention to detail ethos will serve us well as we embrace regular scheduled air services.  

“It is an honour to have the opportunity to serve this important lifeline route and we are excited to get started.”