Passenger traffic at airports in the Highlands and Islands has increased by more than 4% in the past seven months, according to figures released today.

Highlands and Islands Airports saw 813,667 passengers use its 10 airports in the seven months to the end of October, an increase of 33,000 on the previous year.

Aircraft movements over the same period totalled 64,795 in line with last year’s performance.

Inglis Lyon, managing director, said: “By the end of March 2008 we expect to have had our busiest ever year, reflecting the essential role of air travel in our region and the impact of new routes, frequencies and the Scottish Government’s Air Discount Scheme.

“The foundations are already in place for further growth in 2008 with Flybe’s new routes and new charter destinations at Inverness plus a longer season of flights between Shetland and London confirmed.

“These developments should both increase tourism in our region and make it easier for local people to access other parts of the UK and onward international connections for business and leisure.”