Issued by Transport Scotland - Funding for Aberdeen and Glasgow Routes
Almost £1.8 million has been awarded by the Scottish Government to support air services operating from Wick to Aberdeen and Glasgow.
The funding will support the Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes from 15 August 2026 to 14 August 2027, helping to maintain vital air connections for communities, businesses and visitors in the north of Scotland.
Following an open tender exercise, Highland Council has awarded the contract to operate the services to Air Charter Scotland. The service will continue to be operated using an 18-seat BAe Jetstream 32 and will offer four flights a week to Aberdeen and three flights a week to Glasgow. Full schedule details will be available from the operator and on The Highland Council’s website.
Air Charter Scotland has operated the Wick to Aberdeen service since January 2026. The introduction of an 18-seat Jetstream 32 aircraft on the route has increased passenger capacity and enhanced connectivity for the region.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport Stephen Flynn said:
“I am pleased to confirm this funding for PSO air services from Wick, providing important connectivity for businesses and communities across Caithness.
“The Scottish Government fully recognises the economic and social importance of rural connectivity in Scotland and this reaffirms our continuing support for air services from Wick, including through our subsidy of Wick John O’Groats Airport.
“It is vital that the Council continues to make every effort to increase use of the service further. The improved reliability of the Wick to Aberdeen service since Air Charter Scotland took over the route in January is a great starting point to build from.”
Leader of The Highland Council Raymond Bremner said:
"I am delighted that Transport Scotland has confirmed funding for the Wick PSO air service for the year ahead. At a time when the aviation sector continues to face wider uncertainty, this demonstrates the shared commitment of both Transport Scotland and The Highland Council to maintaining vital air connectivity for our communities.
"I am particularly pleased that, alongside the continuation of flights to Aberdeen, the new contract introduces scheduled services to Glasgow, responding to longstanding demand for improved links with Scotland's Central Belt and creating new opportunities for business, healthcare travel, tourism and onward national and international connections.
“These services play a crucial role in supporting the sustainability and economic prosperity of remote and rural communities. I would like to thank Transport Scotland, Highlands and Islands Airports Limited, Air Charter Scotland, Council officers and all partners involved in securing this outcome.”