Increase in passengers at Kirkwall Airport

Kirkwall Airport has reported a 25 per cent increase in passenger numbers in July — up to 19,071 — compared to the same period last year.

Across the board, regional airport group HIAL recorded its strongest monthly rise this year so far, with an almost 10 per cent increase in July.

The group, which operates 11 regional airports across Scotland, including Kirkwall, saw passenger numbers soar to 139,164, an increase of 12,466 (+9.8 per cent) compared to July 2012.

Inglis Lyon, managing director of HIAL said: “July was a particularly strong month for the HIAL group, with the biggest monthly increase in passenger numbers so far this year.

“As passenger numbers grow, the challenge is to ensure that we continue to deliver the same quality experience for our customers. Inverness is a good example of a small airport that delivers a great experience, and we are delighted that it was recently named best performing airport in Scotland. We are committed to delivering those same high standards across our group.”