The new route has qualified for support from the Scottish Executive’s Air Route Development Fund.

“Operating a route between the Western Isles and Aberdeen has been on our radar for some time,” said Graeme Ross, Eastern Airways’ director Scotland.  “Not only do we envisage strong point to point demand for the service, but we expect a significant number of passengers to transfer to and from our many services in and out of Aberdeen.

“We are pleased that both Highlands and Islands Airports and Aberdeen Airport, with the support of the Scottish Executive, continue to take an innovative and fresh approach to route development at their airports. This has enabled us to develop sustainable routes that add economic benefits to the regions served by our network.”

Inglis Lyon, managing director of Highlands and Islands Airports said: "We are delighted that Eastern Airways is expanding its services in the region with this new link between the Western Isles and Aberdeen. This is an excellent example of joined up working between ourselves, the airline and the Executive which is delivering transport benefits for people living in the Western Isles through commercial market innovation.

"Initial route development support from the Executive's Route Development Fund is helping to deliver new air links while we expand an excellent working relationship with Eastern that is delivering improved air connectivity for the region, its people and businesses."

Andy Flower, BAA Aberdeen Airport managing director, said: "We are delighted that Eastern Airways is to further extend its operations out of Aberdeen.  Stornoway will be another new destination to add to our steadily expanding network and it will meet the acknowledged demand for a direct service from Aberdeen"

Western Isles MSP Alasdair Morrison added: "This is excellent news. I'm delighted that Eastern Airways are to establish what I believe will be a very well used air route. I know that a great number of my constituents will welcome today's announcement - many of them work in the oil and gas industry - these flights will make life easier for them and their families.  I'd also like to thank all those who wrote to me on this matter - their proactive approach made it so much easier to convince the Scottish Executive that government should support development of this link."

Business on the island could be boosted as a planning application has been submitted to build the world’s largest onshore wind farm at the north tip of Lewis, which will also result in increased demand to and from Stornoway. 

The launch date may be brought forward, subject to aircraft deliveries, and flight timings will be announced in the coming weeks.  Web fares will start from £99 return including all taxes.