Following the announcement by British Airways that it is to cut back on flights between Inverness and London Heathrow over the summer, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and Inverness Chamber of Commerce are calling for assurances that the reduction in flights will be temporary.
Commenting, Stewart Nicol, Chief Executive of Inverness Chamber of Commerce said:
“The link between Inverness, which is the Highlands’ biggest airport and London Heathrow is incredibly important to our regional and global connectivity and is highly valued by local businesses and consumers alike.
“Given the challenges airports and airline operators have faced over the course of the pandemic, it’s unsurprising that some routes and airlines are taking time to stabilise and recalibrate as we emerge from the impact of covid.
“Given the strong demand on this route, I’m optimistic that this reduction in flights will only be a temporary measure, however businesses will be seeking assurances that BA will reinstate this route as a priority, which will be sure to recover strongly and quickly once reinstated.”
Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:
“It is disappointing that there will be reduced flights between Inverness and Heathrow airports over what should be prime summer months for the domestic destination and tourism sectors, which are critical to the economy of the north of Scotland.
“We expect British Airways to follow up on its assurances that this reduction will only be temporary and that full service can be resumed as soon as possible. For businesses and tourists, this route is a critical connection and must be protected.
“BA must also look to restore the 7am Heathrow flight in order to restore connectivity that benefits business and leisure travel.”