The Highlands and Islands airports in Scotland are forecasted to experience a steady return to pre-Covid passenger numbers. This recovery signals positive news for the region’s aviation sector.
Recent statistics from Highlands and Islands Airports Limited demonstrate a 3.5% increase in passenger numbers, totalling nearly 1.5 million during the 2023-24 fiscal year. A notable rise was observed at Inverness, along with significant increases in various smaller airports.
The 11 airports under Highlands and Islands Airports Limited’s management recorded encouraging growth. Inverness Airport saw the most substantial increase, up 5.6% to reach 792,150 passengers. Wick John O’Groats Airport reported a dramatic 22.2% rise, though the figure remains modest at 11,224 passengers. Smaller yet significant increases were also seen at Campbeltown and Islay airports.
Islay Airport experienced a 7.9% growth, taking its total to 29,919, while Campbeltown rose more than 15%, totalling 7,734 passengers. These figures highlight a region-wide trend of recovery, mirroring broader industry patterns.
Highlands and Islands Airports Limited has committed to maintaining airport infrastructure to support this passenger growth. Investments include a £5 million runway upgrade at Islay and £9 million allocated for new energy-efficient runway lighting at Inverness and Kirkwall airports. This commitment underlines the strategic importance placed on long-term airport viability.
Additionally, a coastal protection project received £5.3 million at Stornoway, securing the airport’s infrastructure against erosion. These investments are crucial for sustaining operations and improving passenger experience, ensuring continued growth of the region’s air travel connectivity.
Despite positive growth figures, some airports saw a decline in passenger numbers, including Barra, Benbecula, and Dundee. These decreases reflect broader economic challenges and shifting travel patterns.
A turbulent economic climate has posed challenges, yet the overall recovery of Highland and Island airports continues, adhering to a steady trajectory towards pre-pandemic levels. This resilience is attributed to strategic investments and targeted measures implemented by the airport authority.
In 2023, new flight connections were established, linking Dundee, Orkney, and Shetland with London Heathrow. This development enhances accessibility to a major international hub, benefiting island communities significantly.
These flights provide crucial links for island residents and contribute to the region’s economic development, offering better connectivity to both domestic and international destinations.
Paul Kelsall, chief executive of Highlands and Islands Airports Limited, expressed optimism about the recovery trajectory. He emphasised the importance of building on 2022-23’s strong passenger figures despite economic adversities.
“I’m encouraged that despite the challenging economic climate we have continued to build on the strong passenger figures,” Kelsall stated, reaffirming his confidence in achieving pre-pandemic passenger numbers.
Environmental sustainability is at the forefront of Hial’s operations, with investments directed towards energy-efficient technologies. The £9 million runway lighting project exemplifies the focus on reducing carbon footprints.
These measures not only ensure regulatory compliance but also enhance the airports’ operational efficiency, aligning with global sustainability goals.
The Highlands and Islands airports are on a promising path to restoring pre-pandemic passenger levels. Recognising both achievements and challenges, the region remains dedicated to enhancing connectivity and infrastructure.
Through strategic investments and a focus on sustainability, the airports are poised to continue their recovery and play a significant role in Scotland’s aviation landscape.
