Transport / First ever Sumburgh-Dundee flight receives warm welcome
IT IS not everyday a new flight route opens up from Shetland – but yesterday’s announcement that Loganair will fly direct to and from Dundee next summer has been welcomed with opens arms by those with links to the city.
The twice-weekly flight will begin in May next year, and it will also connect to London City.
It is the first time there has been a direct route between Shetland and Dundee, potentially opening up a new market of tourists heading north.
But for some it is a welcome chance to travel to Dundee to see family or friends – and not having to head there from other Scottish cities.
Located on the waterfront, Dundee Airport is not far from the city centre, while it offers a useful base for travellers wanting to visit areas like Perthshire, St Andrews and the east coast.
As previously reported, prices for Dundee flights from Shetland will start from £96.99 and for London trips fares will begin from £129.99.
Shetland resident Louise Giblin is originally from Dundee, and she said she was “delighted” by the news.
“I only wish the flights started sooner as I have tickets to a gig in October to see Elvana in Dundee and haven’t organised my travel yet,” she added.
“I’m from Dundee, I grew up and went to university there. My family and friends are still there – it’s my hometown.
“I’m sure they will use this service, depending on the price point as Dundee Airport is at the waterfront so very handy for the city. My dad will appreciate not having to drive me to Aberdeen Airport.”
Giblin said she has used Dundee to London City flights before, and hailed the airport’s transport links into the centre of London.
Meanwhile VisitScotland’s local manager Steve Mathieson hailed it as “fabulous news”.
He said not only may it open up new markets for tourism in and around Dundee, it might also encourage more people in the south of England to visit Shetland.
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