Tourism in Shetland is expected to receive a boost from today (23rd May) with the start of the islands’ direct air link to London Stansted for the 2008 season.
Atlantic Airways’ direct service between Sumburgh and Stansted airports will operate twice a week until 29th August this year on Mondays and Fridays.
The 90-minute flight, which is now in its third year of operation, puts Shetland within easy reach of millions of potential visitors in the south of England while offering added travel opportunities for island residents.
Sumburgh Airport manager Nigel Flaws said: “We are looking forward to a busy season for the London flights which are now in their third year of operation. This north – south link is good for the islands because it is a direct service that supports inbound tourism and opens up access to a lot of onward connections to Europe from Stansted for local residents.
“Shetland is a unique environment in the UK and Atlantic Airways has helped to open it up to new tourism markets by making us more accessible in recent years. It’s an opportunity that the islands have been keen to embrace in terms of promoting themselves as a visitor destination.”
Shetland’s air services will expand again in early June when Loganair launches a twice weekly service between Sumburgh and the Norwegian city of Bergen. Flights will operate on Saturdays and Tuesdays from 7th June until 30th August.
Mr Flaws said: “The airport recorded growth of more than 13% last year, handling a total of more than 164,000 passengers. We would hope to continue that trend this year and make sure that the airport is playing a growing role in the economic life of the islands. Loganair’s new Norwegian link is part of that process and a development that we very much welcome.”
For flight information and booking for Sumburgh – Stansted flights visit www.flyshetland.com and for Sumburgh – Bergen flights visit www.ba.com .
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