EASTERN AIRWAYS TO LAUNCH NEW GLASGOW – NORWAY SERVICE

Airline to launch first ever international service from Glasgow

A new route linking Glasgow with Stavanger in Norway is being introduced by Eastern Airways on 12 September 2011.

The UK’s second largest regional airline, which offers more flights from its Scottish base in Aberdeen than any other carrier, is launching its first ever international service from Glasgow Airport with three flights a week to Stavanger.

Eastern Airways initially built its network of services on the back of the oil and gas industry 13 years ago with services up the east coast of England and subsequently entered the Norwegian market in 2007.

Norway is the third largest exporter of oil in the world and most major energy companies have bases in Stavanger on the south west coast.

The new Stavanger flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fares will start from £99 one way, including taxes and charges.

Monday and Wednesday flights will leave Stavanger at 9.20am and arrive in Glasgow at 9.50am local time. Services on Mondays and Wednesdays depart Glasgow at 10.20am and arrive in Stavanger at 1.20pm local time.

On Fridays, flights will depart Stavanger at 10am and arrive in Glasgow at 10.30pm local time. Friday services take off from Glasgow at 11am and land in Stavanger at 1.30pm local time.

Kay Ryan, Eastern Airways’ commercial director, said: “A new convenient route to Stavanger from Glasgow will not only benefit offshore workers who live in central Scotland, but also Norwegian contractors and businesses with links in Glasgow and the surrounding region. We will monitor the service and look to increase frequency if there’s high demand for more flights.”

Amanda McMillan, managing director at Glasgow Airport, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Eastern Airways to Glasgow and are delighted they will be introducing a frequent service to and from Stavanger.

“The new route is fantastic news for leisure travellers who would like to visit Norway’s spectacular fjords and waterfalls and for business travellers who want easier access to Stavanger, one of Europe’s most famous oil and gas capitals.

“I look forward to working with the team at Eastern Airways and wish the airline great success for the future.”

Gordon Matheson, leader of Glasgow City Council and chair, Glasgow City Marketing Bureau (GCMB) said: “This is fantastic news for the Glasgow and our airport. The Stavanger service adds yet another valuable route to our network of flights around the world and is a boost for both business and the short break tourist market. Even in these tough times Glasgow is constantly improving its air links and we will continue to work hard to build on this latest success.”

Although the new service will suit business travellers, as a former European Capital of Culture with breathtaking fjords and mountains, the Stavanger region is also ideal for tourists.

Services to Stavanger are also offered by Eastern Airways from Aberdeen and Newcastle.

The regional airline is consistently rated one of the UK’s most punctual scheduled airlines and has a fleet of 30 aircraft flying from 21 airports in the UK, Ireland, Norway and France.

Passengers flying with the airline are not charged for check-in, baggage, choice of seat or onboard drinks and snacks. Check-in closes just 30 minutes before the departure time.