30 October 2006
The first ever air service linking Southampton Airport and the Scottish Highlands departs today thanks to Eastern Airways’ new Inverness link.

European Regional Airline of the Year, Eastern Airways, will now offer an onward Inverness leg to its current weekday Southampton – Leeds Bradford service.  Journey times will be dramatically reduced over the current arduous 12 hour drive.   

Flights will depart Southampton at 0835, arriving in Inverness at 1140.  Return services leave Inverness at 1215 and land in Southampton at 1520.

Graeme Ross, Eastern Airways’ director Scotland, said: “Our new Highland link is great news for business and leisure travellers from the south coast of England as they will significantly save time compared to other transport options.  The service will benefit those travelling to and from the financial institutions and industrial heartland in Hampshire, as well as the M3 corridor. 

“Tourists taking short breaks and activity holidays in the stunning mountainous Highland region will also be able to take advantage of our fast link.”

Southampton Airport’s communications director, Jan Halliday, said: “We’re delighted to see the Highlands added to the growing number of destinations offered here at Southampton.  As well as seeing passengers heading to the Highlands on business or for leisure purposes, we also expect many travellers visiting our region, with its magnificent range of tourist attractions, world renowned port and locally based global corporations.”

Web fares start from £99 return, including all taxes, fees and charges.  Eastern Airways also operates flights from Southampton to Brussels, Newcastle, Leeds Bradford, Aberdeen and the Isle of Man.