More than 21,000 passengers travelled on the seven day a week services at Inverness Airport during their first month of operation.

The new air connections have not only opened up opportunities for inbound tourism but  have also widened the choice for air travellers in the Highlands, both for point to point travel to Northern Ireland the south-west of England and for onward air connections through the busy hub airports at Belfast and Bristol.

James Walton, Inverness Airport manager said: “We would expect the local hospitality and leisure industry to be reaping benefits from these new air services which are bringing thousands of extra visitors into the area. The other main advantage is for businesses based in the Highlands and Islands that can now access two major markets by air with competitive low-cost fares.

“These new routes are prime examples of the economic and social benefits that air travel brings to the Highlands and Islands. Our strategic focus on long term sustainable air route development will ensure that the airport continues to deliver positive outcomes for the region, its businesses and communities.”