Passengers from the Scottish Highlands celebrated a new travel choice as the inaugural direct flight from Inverness to Gran Canaria took off on February 17, 2023. This major milestone marked the beginning of a five-week service operated by Murray Travel with a charter from Air Baltic.
Inaugural Flight Details
The flight departed at precisely 2:47 PM, with nearly all seats filled, according to Scott Murray, co-founder of Murray Travel. Travelers expressed their excitement about the new direct route, highlighting the convenience it offers without the need to travel to larger airports.
Benefits of Direct Flights
- Elimination of long-distance travel to airports like Edinburgh or Glasgow.
- Reduction of additional costs, including parking and overnight stays.
- Faster airport processing times, leading to a more enjoyable travel experience.
Passengers shared positive feedback on the ease of the direct service. Meg from Elgin noted that the flight made her travel plans much simpler. Margaret, traveling with friends, appreciated being able to leave at a reasonable hour rather than waking up at dawn for a flight from Glasgow.
Cost Savings Compared to Other Airports
John and Anne Kirk, new travelers to Gran Canaria, highlighted significant cost savings. Mr. Kirk estimated that bypassing major airports would save them around £300 when factoring in travel and parking expenses in larger cities.
Background on the New Route
This direct flight service has been nearly three years in the making. Scott Murray mentioned the strong demand and potential for flights from the local airport. The Gran Canaria route builds on the success of Murray Travel’s previous charters to Lapland.
As more travelers discover the benefits of direct flights, Murray Travel is optimistic for the continued success of this new service, eliminating the stress of layovers and lengthy commutes.
Future of Direct Flights from Inverness
The initial launch has garnered local attention, with coverage from the Inverness Courier capturing the excitement of the first travelers. While the next flight in this exclusive five-week program has yet to be announced, many are already looking forward to future adventures.
