KLM announce new flights from Inverness to Amsterdam

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has announced new flights from Inverness.

Published 9th Dec 2015

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has announced new flights from Inverness.

Tickets for the new Inverness to Amsterdam route will launch on the 17th May 2016 as part of the firm's summer schedule.

All flights will be operated by KLM Cityhopper, using Fokker 70 jet aircraft, carrying up to 80 passengers.

Warner Rootliep, General Manager of Air France-KLM UK & Ireland said: “Demand from Scotland continues to grow and KLM has always invested in its Scottish network and local relationships in the region. We are happy to strengthen our presence in Scotland and are confident this news will be well received. Our experience of being the UK’s largest regional long-haul carrier means we are best placed to understand the needs of local communities and regional businesses and we know that the service we will provide out of Inverness will perfectly answer the needs of the people of Northern Scotland.’

Inglis Lyon, Managing Director of Inverness Airport operator HIAL, said: “We are delighted to welcome KLM to Inverness Airport. This service will deliver more choice for passengers from one of Europe’s leading international airlines. With a global network of more than 150 worldwide destinations, KLM’s arrival ensures local businesses are better connected to key markets around the world, while tourism providers will also benefit as Inverness joins KLM’s world network of destinations. Given the strength of KLM’s brand, reputation and global connections, we are confident this new service will deliver significant benefits for the Highlands.”

Minister for Transport and Islands, Derek Mackay said: “This new Inverness-Amsterdam route from KLM is fantastic news, boosting connectivity to the Highlands and Scotland as a whole. By opening up a wide range of onward connections from Schiphol, one of Europe’s busiest hub airports, we offer Scottish businesses improved access to important global markets. This link also makes it even easier for visitors to get a taste of the fantastic experiences on offer in the Highlands, which is welcome news for the tourism industry. The Scottish Government is keen to support HIAL to continue to grow the number of routes available from Inverness Airport in the future. I look forward to the new service taking off next year and wish HIAL and KLM every success.”

Scott Armstrong, VisitScotland Regional Partnerships Director, added: “This daily service, flying directly into Inverness, is fantastic news for the Highlands. It not only links Inverness to one of the world's major aviation hubs - unlocking the potential for growth in our long-haul and emerging markets - but creates further opportunities for our European visitors, many of whom are repeat visitors, to fly directly to the north of Scotland.

“VisitScotland’s objective is to see our country connected into every global airline network and alliance, which is key to growing the visitor economy. This new service from KLM will further enhance the promotion of the Highlands as a must-visit destination where visitors can explore distinct and beautiful landscapes and discover the world renowned North Coast 500 route."