Air Charter Scotland is set to enter the scheduled passenger market after being awarded the Public Service Obligation (PSO) contract to operate the Wick–Aberdeen–Wick air service, restoring a critical regional air link that has been suspended since the collapse of Eastern Airways in October.
The Glasgow-based operator has signed an agreement with The Highland Council to restart the route from January 12, 2026, ensuring continued connectivity for the Caithness region to Scotland’s northeast economic hub. The service is widely regarded as an essential lifeline for local communities and businesses, providing reliable access to healthcare, education and onward connections.
In the initial phase, Air Charter Scotland will operate the route using a BAe Jetstream 32 on a wet-lease basis from Dutch carrier AIS Airlines, supplying both aircraft and crew. The airline plans to transition the turboprop onto its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in the coming months as part of its longer-term strategy to expand into scheduled services.
Bookings open on January 6, with one-way fares starting from £74.99. Flights will operate six days a week, excluding Saturdays, with the aircraft based at Wick Airport, operating rotations to and from Aberdeen.
Commenting on the contract award, Derek Thomson said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the Wick–Aberdeen–Wick PSO air service and are proud to support the Caithness community by keeping this vital air link flying. It provides a critical lifeline air service that the region can be truly proud of.”
The move marks a strategic milestone for Air Charter Scotland, broadening its operational footprint beyond charter services into scheduled regional connectivity, while reinforcing the importance of PSO-supported routes in sustaining remote and regional economies.
