Continued funding welcomed for ‘Lifeline' Wick-Aberdeen air service

14th March 2025

The Highland Council has today received confirmation from Scottish Government that it will continue to provide funding to the Wick-Aberdeen Public Service Obligation (PSO) into financial year 2025/26.

The funding provided by Scottish Government in 2025/26 will be up to £1 million, as in previous years, and The Highland Council will continue with its own already agreed commitment of £300,000.

The confirmation follows the submission earlier this week of the final output report of the Wick John O'Groats Airport Working Group, which highlighted for the attention of Scottish Ministers several key opportunities for future sustainable delivery of services at Wick John O’Groats Airport, as well as opportunities for substantial economic growth in the North Highlands as a region over the coming decade.

Cllr Raymond Bremner, Leader of The Highland Council and Chair of the Wick John O’Groats Airport Working Group, said, "I am delighted that Scottish Government has decided to continue funding this lifeline service for another year. The continued provision of scheduled air services is vital in enabling the community of the North Highlands to access employment, education, healthcare and leisure opportunities, and today’s announcement marks a strong recognition from Scottish Government of the importance of this service to the region.

"The report of the Working Group highlighted the key role that Wick John O’Groats Airport will play in the coming years in enabling a wealth of opportunities in the region. This continued support for the PSO will also provide local partners with the short-term certainty they require to progress the vital work of realising these opportunities.

“While led by The Highland Council, the Working Group and its role in securing this ongoing commitment is a testament to the power of partnership working, and I would like to thank all of those who were involved in producing the report and driving the work of the Group forward.

“I personally, and The Highland Council as a whole, look forward to continuing to work closely with partners across the North Highlands, as well as with colleagues in Highlands & Islands Airports Ltd and Transport Scotland, to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of Wick John O’Groats Airport."