Support for Wick air route will bring ‘much-needed stability’, says Maree Todd
The Scottish Government’s continuing support for flights between Wick and Aberdeen was hailed as “excellent news for Caithness” by Maree Todd as she spoke of the “crucial economic and social benefits” the route brings to the area.
The SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross said the public service obligation (PSO) funding announcement would bring “much-needed stability” to Wick John O’Groats Airport while safeguarding local jobs.
Ms Todd also explained that she had stressed to Scotland’s transport secretary, Fiona Hyslop, that reliable transport links can play a vital role in combating depopulation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of rural communities.
Local MP Jamie Stone also welcomed the renewed funding and said he would like to see more flights in and out of Wick, such as to Glasgow or Edinburgh.
The existing three-year agreement between Highland Council and the Scottish Government to fund a PSO on the Wick/Aberdeen route, operated by Eastern Airways, runs out at the end of this month. A continuation of government funding into the financial year 2025/26 was announced on Thursday night.
Ms Todd said: “I am delighted that the SNP Scottish Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting our most rural communities by extending the PSO for the Wick/Aberdeen service.
“This decision recognises the crucial economic and social benefits the route brings to the far north and the wider Highland region, while also providing much-needed stability for Wick John O’Groats Airport and safeguarding local jobs.
“The Wick/Aberdeen service is more than just a transport link – it is a lifeline for many of my constituents, offering vital access to healthcare, education and employment opportunities.
“I have strongly supported the continuation of this route, as I fully recognise its role in driving economic growth and keeping our far north communities connected.
“With the north Highlands facing significant challenges due to population decline, improving our transport infrastructure has to be a priority.
“In my discussions with the cabinet secretary for transport, I stressed the vital role reliable transport links play in combating depopulation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our rural communities.
“A well-connected Highlands is essential for attracting investment, creating jobs and giving businesses the confidence to expand.”
Highland Council leader Raymond Bremner, who is chairman of the Wick John O’Groats Airport Working Group, had earlier described the funding announcement as “a strong recognition from the Scottish Government of the importance of this service to the region”.
The funding provided by the Scottish Government in 2025/26 will be up to £1 million, as in previous years, while the council will continue with its commitment of £300,000.
Ms Todd said: “I am incredibly grateful to Councillor Bremner, Highland Council officers, the airline and local stakeholders, all of whom have worked tirelessly to improve the route’s performance and explore long-term opportunities for the airport.
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“This is excellent news for Caithness and I am confident that, with this renewed support, passenger numbers will continue to grow, ensuring a promising future for both the airport and our local communities.”
Jamie Stone, the Liberal Democrat MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, said: “I am delighted by this news. The future of the airport depends on its use by passengers – indeed, I myself use it from time to time.
“The trick now is to get still more flights in and out of Wick. In particular, I am thinking of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Growing the economy in the far north depends on having a successful airport.”
