Agents in Scotland have been urged to get behind a newly announced Etihad Airways service from Edinburgh to Abu Dhabi.
The call came from the Scottish Passenger Agents Association in the wake of the announcement that daily flights would start in June next year.
SPAA president Jimmy Martin said: “Etihad’s confirmation of this new service – first spoken of by [CEO] James Hogan when he addressed our annual SPAA dinner in February this year – is welcome news indeed.
“Etihad is joining a number of top quality airlines now operating direct from Scotland to their overseas hubs, and beyond to hundreds of worldwide destinations.
“This can only be positive for Scotland – for our business people and our leisure travellers – not least in this landmark year.
“The last couple of years has brought incredible growth in the range of destinations reachable by air direct from Scottish airports – domestic, European short-haul, and worldwide long-haul.
“That brings healthy competition in air fares – economy and premium – and as our agents and passengers get behind these routes, it grows the market for everyone.”
He added: “It’s great to see James Hogan and Etihad following up their commitment in February, and I’ve no doubt Scots travellers will make the most of the Abu Dhabi route – as a holiday destination and as a gateway to Africa, Asia and Australia.”