Funding confirmed for Wick-Aberdeen flights

Flights between Wick John O'Groats Airport and Aberdeen are subsidised by the Scottish government

The Scottish government has confirmed funding to subsidise flights between Wick and Aberdeen for another year.

The air services were withdrawn in 2020 after the Covid-19 pandemic hit the airlines industry, but reinstated in early 2022.

Flights operate under a public service obligation (PSO), which involves government subsidies and requires airlines to provide a set level of services.

Highland Council said it was a "huge decision" to continue funding in 2024-25.

Council leader Raymond Bremner said: "I’m also delighted that the Scottish government has endorsed the importance of our airport to our far north communities and its contribution to growing our local economy."

Transport Scotland said it was vital the local authority continued its efforts to increae use of the service further.

A spokesperson said: "The contract to operate the route was primarily designed to support business in the Caithness area and we want to see strong and clear support from local business organisations translate into more passengers.”