Price rise for Wick-Aberdeen PSO route

The price of an air fare between Wick and Aberdeen is to rise from next month due to "prevailing economic conditions."
The standard one-way ticket on the route will increase from £49.99 to £54.99 as from April, as a result of increased airport and agency charges and inflationary pressures in the wider economy, according to Highland Council.
The local authority, which helps subsidise the flights along with the Scottish Government, confirmed the £5 increase in the fare but stressed the public service obligation (PSO) route had "a highly successful second year."
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The council said the period from April 2023 to March 2024 saw a substantial increase in passenger numbers, with several months seeing over 1,000 passengers using the service, and overall the service has seen year on year growth of 25 per cent.
A spokesperson said: "Despite some uncertainty over funding, thanks to the hard work and support of stakeholders, further funding was secured to continue the service into 2024/25. The council and operator – Eastern Airways – are now working hard to promote the service at both ends of the route as we enter the summer 2024 period.
"The Highland Council remains committed to delivering the service as a lifeline for the region and recognises the importance of affordable, accessible transport to those living in, working in, and visiting the area."
Council leader, Councillor Raymond Bremner who is also Chair of the Wick John O’ Groats Airport Consultative Committee and a local member for Wick and East Caithness, said: "We would like to thank all of our passengers, the team at Wick John O’Groats Airport, and local stakeholders for their continued support in making this service a success. Here’s to even more good news in the third year."

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