By Mike Merritt
BRITAIN’S most northerly mainland airport is in talks to run international flights leading to a “fantastic” tourism boom for an area of the Highlands.
Wick John O’ Groats Airport could start allowing flights from abroad, making Caithness far more accessible to foreign tourists, the local MP has claimed. Foreign sightseers travelling to the area, whose delights include the Queen Mother’s former home at nearby Castle of Mey have to change flights at larger Scottish airports after jetting in from abroad.
It would have enormous potential in developing strong international business links for the North of Scotland and boosting tourism.
Dr Paul Monaghan MP revealed the plans after holding talks with the airline Eastern Airways over improving their service between Wick and Aberdeen.
He said: “I welcome any potential for flights from Wick John O’ Groats to international destinations.
“This would have fantastic implications for the North Highlands in terms of both business and tourism.
“It would be an excellent boost to the economy of the North of Scotland.”
It comes almost a year after owners Highlands & Islands Airport revealed that passenger numbers had fallen by almost 43 per cent in the first three months of 2016.
Dr Monaghan held the meeting mainly to discuss issues with frequent cancellations and delays on its Wick services. He also stressed the importance of the reliability of the service to the residents of the North Highlands.
Dr Monaghan said Eastern Airways gave reassurances they have prioritised improving the service Wick/Aberdeen service.
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