Airline British Airways recently announced plans for a new route between London Heathrow and Inverness- after 18 years absence on the route. It comes as campaigners have fought for years to get the ‘gateway between the Highlands and the Islands’ to be re-introduced.
The airline has said that the year round service will commence from early May next year, connecting the capital of the Highlands with Heathrow’s terminal 5. Passengers will also be able to take advantage of British Airways’ global network.
The Managing Director of Inverness airport said:
“We are delighted to welcome British Airways back to Inverness Airport. This is a significant achievement for the airport as British Airways is a world class airline, serving more than 130 international destinations from Heathrow, giving passengers from Inverness access to a truly global network.
“Through our efforts, and with the support of our partners, Inverness Airport has done what few other regional airports have achieved in recent years, attracting one of the world’s leading airlines and securing access to the UK’s hub airport at the same time. No other UK airport offers more worldwide connections than Heathrow, and no other UK airline offers more international destinations than British Airways. The potential benefits for business and inbound tourism are enormous.”
Business executives across the region also expressed their delight at the news, saying that the route would be of ‘great interest’ to both existing businesses and potential investors. One man said that it would be particularly important for Scottish businesses looking to access global markets, as well as a major boost to tourism in the area.
The airline will operate an Airbus A319 with up to 143 seats and one-way hand baggage only fares start from £47. Fares will include a generous hand baggage allowance and complimentary drinks and snacks once on board the aircraft.
Currently, British Airways operate around 58 return services a day to airports throughout Scotland.
