WATCH: Will flights linking Inverness to Amsterdam take off?

The first flights linking Inverness and Amsterdam have taken off without a hitch.

Unions call for Scottish Government intervention as "a matter of urgency"
Published 17th May 2016

The first flights linking Inverness and Amsterdam have taken off without a hitch.

The daily flight, which will be operated by KLM Cityhopper, will connect the Highland Capital with Schiphol, using an Embraer 175 jet aircraft, which will carry up to 88 passengers.

KLM’s hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is consistently voted one of Europe’s best business airports and was voted Best Airport in Europe at the 2015 Business Traveller Awards for the 15th consecutive year.

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.”

Scott Armstrong, VisitScotland Regional Partnerships Director, said: “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.”