Highland flights soaring

THE number of passengers flying in and out of airports in the north and the Scottish islands has soared, according to new figures.

Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) saw a 15 per cent rise in traffic in January to February this year, compared to the same months in 2010.

Inglis Lyon, managing director, said: "We are really pleased with the results this quarter.

"These figures are partially attributed to the introduction of an additional London, Gatwick flight from Inverness, a new charter to Naples and an earlier commencement of our Jersey charter - both from Inverness.

"We have also seen increased offshore helicopter traffic at Sumburgh, and increased passenger numbers at Stornoway due to the Western Isles School Project."

HIAL has airports in Barra, Benbecula, Campbeltown, Inverness, Islay, Kirkwall, Stornoway, Sumburgh, Tiree and Wick.