EASYJET will protect flights between Inverness and Gatwick when it becomes the sole carrier between the Highland capital and London next year.
Last month it was announced the company had bought Flybe's Gatwick slots or £20 million, and there was concern in the Highlands the three Inverness weekday slots would be used for more lucrative European flights.
Flybe's early-morning departure for Gatwick and evening return, which allowed people from the north to spend a day in London, was a particularly prized service. EasyJet's existing later connections to Gatwick and Luton, were not seen as real alternatives.
However, easyJet announced yesterday that when it takes over the slots at the end of March, it plans two return flights a day to Gatwick, one with a 9am arrival in London and an evening return, while capacity will increase from around 212,000 to 230,000 seats.
Hugh Aitken, easyJet's head of Scotland, said: "This deal demonstrates easyJet's commitment to Inverness and the Highlands. The new early flight will allow business travellers to reach London in time for meetings while the evening departure from London enables them to travel home on the same day. The additional seats will also help boost tourism to the Highlands."
Transport Minister Keith Brown said after the uncertainty over the future of connections, easyJet's announcement was fantastic news for the Highlands. "This decision will not only secure crucial early and late connections from next March, but will also see capacity on this vital route increase substantially."
Highland Council leader Drew Hendry said: "I am absolutely delighted with this announcement. I know a key factor in easyJet's decision was the very clear message and evidence of growth of the Highland economy and the opportunities this presents to them in developing the service to London."
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