Council makes route case after flights suspended

Eastern Airways filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator on Monday

Highland Council has said it has made the case for the continuation of a subsidised air service between Wick and Aberdeen after Eastern Airways suspended its flights.

The UK regional airline is on the brink of collapse and it filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator on Monday.

It also suspended a number of its flights, including Wick's public service obligation (PSO) route which receives support from the Scottish government and Highland Council.

The service returned in 2022 after being withdrawn during the Covid pandemic.

Highland Council said the news about Eastern Airways was "deeply disappointing".

"Wick airport provides a lifeline service to communities, decreasing inequality of access to healthcare, education and business," it added.

A spokesperson said the local authority had already submitted a business case to Scottish government agency Transport Scotland.

"This makes the case not only for the continuation of the PSO air services to Wick but for the expansion of provision," the spokesperson added.

Earlier this year the Scottish government provided a £1m subsidy, topped up by a £300,000 contribution from Highland Council, for the Wick to Aberdeen flights.