North airports company on a high as HIAL reports increase in passenger numbers bringing yearly total to almost 1.5 million
Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) has seen a 3.5 per cent year-on-year increase in passenger numbers for 2023/24 across its network of 11 airports bringing the total number of passengers to almost 1.5 million.
At Inverness, passenger numbers rose by 5.6 per cent to 792,150.
Wick John O’Groats airport, figures were up by 22.2 per cent to 11,224 passengers, with increases of over 15 per cent at Campbeltown and 7.9 per cent at Islay bringing total figures to 7734 and 29,919 respectively.
Increases were also recorded at Kirkwall, Stornoway, Sumburgh and Tiree.
Airports showing a decrease included Barra, Benbecula and Dundee.
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Paul Kelsall, HIAL’s chief executive, said: “I’m encouraged that despite the challenging economic climate we have continued to build on the strong passenger figures of 2022/2023, which remain on track for a steady return to pre-pandemic levels.
“We have invested to maintain our infrastructure and ensure the longevity of our airports for years to come.
“This includes a £5 million project to upgrade the two runways at Islay and £9 million in new energy efficient runway lighting at Inverness and Kirkwall airports.
“Additionally, £5.3 million was invested in a Coastal Protection Project at Stornoway to protect the airport infrastructure and surrounding area from erosion.”
He added: “In 2023, we welcomed the introduction of flights connecting Dundee, Orkney & Shetland with London Heathrow providing our island communities with access to a key international hub.
“I look forward to working together with colleagues to delivering the high level of service that HIAL’s customers expect.”
A total of 1,476, 547 passengers used HIAL airports in 2023/2024, an increase of 49,371.
