The airline that operates more services to and from Aberdeen than any other carrier has made a significant commitment to north east Scotland with the announcement of its first scheduled international route from Scotland.

Eastern Airways, named European Regional Airline of the Year 2006/7, will launch twice daily weekday flights between Aberdeen and Stavanger from Monday 13 August to complement the company’s network of 10 destinations already served from Europe’s Energy Capital. 

Norway is the third largest exporter of oil in the world and most major energy companies have bases in Stavanger.  As European Capital of Culture 2008, the Stavanger region is also ideal for tourists with its unforgettable fjords and mountains.

Eastern’s new route, which will be operated by a 50-seat Saab 2000 aircraft, will be welcome news for the many organisations that undertake business in both Scotland and Norway, offering more flexibility than was previously available.

Graeme Ross, Eastern Airways director Scotland, said: “Our comprehensive Aberdeen network has been developed to provide businesses, including the energy sector, with vital city links and is naturally complemented with our first international service to Stavanger.  Business links between these two strategically important oil related cities will be further strengthened with our convenient business schedules and punctual services providing even greater choice.

“Our new service will also appeal to tourists visiting the stunning region of Stavanger with its Viking heritage and breathtaking views, as well as affording more flexibility to Norwegian tourists wishing to sample the many delights of this part of Scotland.”

Aberdeen Airport’s acting managing director, Gavin McKechnie said: “We’re delighted to see Eastern Airways expanding their services to include a European destination which will give their passengers a whole new opportunity.  No other airline provides as many flights in and out of Aberdeen, and that Eastern Airways are further enhancing their already impressive network to include the European Capital of Culture 2008 is great news.”

Geoff Runcie, Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce chief executive added; “We are delighted that Eastern Airways has increased its flight offering from the hub of the north east economy and welcome their continuous commitment to our region.

“The new service by Eastern Airways to Stavanger will offer an increased flexibility for business travellers.  Being able to travel forth and back on the same day will mean substantial savings in time and money, which is great news for the North East business community.  It is reassuring to see that more and more airlines recognise the travel needs of our business community and translate these into new routes and services.”

Weekday services will take just 70 minutes and depart from Aberdeen at 0700 and 1605, arriving in Stavanger at 0910 and 1815 local time. Weekday flights from Stavanger take off at 0940 and 1845 arriving in Aberdeen at 0950 and 1855 local time. 
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