Air Charter Scotland has secured a full year of Public Service Obligation (PSO) flights from Wick John O’Groats Airport, expanding its essential regional network with a brand‑new route to Glasgow while continuing its established service to Aberdeen.
The announcement follows the Scottish Government’s renewed investment in regional connectivity and a successful tender process led by The Highland Council.
Tickets go on sale next week for an enhanced schedule running 15 August 2026 to 14 August 2027, featuring weekly return flights between Wick and Aberdeen and three weekly return flights between Wick and Glasgow. Services will continue to be operated in partnership with AIS Airlines using the 18‑seat BAe Jetstream 32 aircraft.
The new Glasgow route responds directly to long‑standing demand from the North Highlands community, improving access to Scotland’s Central Belt and unlocking wider opportunities for business, healthcare, tourism and economic growth, according to The Highland Council.
Since taking over the Wick–Aberdeen service in January, Air Charter Scotland has carried approximately 1,800 passengers, rebuilding confidence in a region that has faced significant aviation challenges in recent years. COO Derek Thomson said the airline’s focus has been on reliability, customer service and community trust — qualities he believes underpin the continued confidence shown by both The Highland Council and the Scottish Government.
The extended PSO contract is the result of collaboration between Transport Scotland, The Highland Council, Air Charter Scotland, AIS Airlines, HIAL and regional stakeholders, all working to deliver dependable connectivity for the North Highlands.
