A revised timetable has been launched to improve reliability and connectivity of flights at Wick John O’Groats Airport.
The Highland Council and Eastern Airways have agreed a number of changes to scheduled flight times on the Wick-Aberdeen air route.
Highland Council said the changes have been "carefully considered" to reduce cancellations and restore public trust, with all partners reiterating their commitment to protecting the service and retaining flights six days a week.
The Wick-Aberdeen route is regarded as crucial to the north Highland economy and the wider community.
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The route has enjoyed considerable early success, with passenger growth of 25% in the second year and monthly passenger numbers often exceeding one thousand.
However, over the past 12 months, overall reliability fell from upwards of 90% to an average of 85%, while September 2024 dipped to 79%, reflecting a number of cancellations caused by operational issues or adverse weather.
Partners believe the new timetable will deliver meaningful service improvements in the months ahead.
Roger Hage of Eastern Airways said: “We are acutely conscious that recent service levels have fallen short of the standards our passengers expect. We have listened to passenger feedback and on discussion with partners we have decided to make some changes which we believe will deliver improvements in the Wick-Aberdeen service.
"We hope to restore confidence in the service and welcome an increased focus on onward connectivity to allow easier use of Aberdeen through the more challenging winter months.”
Malcolm MacLeod, Assistant Chief Executive (Place) of the Highland Council, said: “In light of recent issues with the service, all stakeholders got around the table and had a deep and constructive conversation about improving service standards. We believe that these changes are the right move to create a more reliable and sustainable service, and we are confident from our discussion with Eastern Airways that the changes will bring immediate improvements.
“We view the Wick-Aberdeen flights as a lifeline service to the north Highlands and we all remain absolutely committed to making a go of it. We would ask passengers and the wider community to support the service as we deliver these improvements.”
Full details of the new timetable can be found online or by visiting easternairways.co.uk
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