Highland Airways strikes deal with potential buyer

Highland Airways employs 100 people – some of whom have experienced wage payment problems during the difficulties.

The company's troubles follow the collapse of another Scottish airline, Flyglobespan, in December.

In a statement, Highland Airways said it was "cautiously optimistic" that the takeover would go through. The bidder has not been revealed.

The airline is part-owned by the Scottish Government development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Bookings had been suspended last month when the company said it was experiencing "difficult trading".

Flights continued and bookings were reopened later in the week, although only for a few days in advance.

In its latest statement, the airline said: "Since 25 January, Highland Airways has been in discussions with a potential purchaser of the entire share capital of the company.

"More recently we have signed an exclusivity agreement with this party and they are currently negotiating with the key stakeholders and creditors in the business in order to ensure its future viability.

"We are now accepting bookings on all Highland Airways scheduled flights until the end of March."