Inverness Launches First Direct Flight to Gran Canaria for Winter Sun Seekers

Jordan Hartwell

Published: February 18, 2026 6:05 AM ET

Inverness Launches First Direct Flight to Gran Canaria for Winter Sun Seekers

Inverness has introduced its first direct flight to Gran Canaria, catering to winter sun seekers. This new route is a significant addition for local travelers looking to escape the colder months.

Details of the Direct Flight

Operated by Murray Travel, this exclusive five-week program features charter flights from Inverness to Gran Canaria. The inaugural flight took place on February 17, departing at 2:47 PM. It was nearly filled, showcasing strong interest from Highland passengers.

Collaborating Partners

Murray Travel: Co-founded by Scott and Sarah Murray, the company is dedicated to enhancing travel options from Inverness.
Air Baltic: The airline responsible for operating the chartered flights.

Community Response

Passengers expressed their satisfaction with the new service. Meg from Elgin remarked on the convenience of direct flights, highlighting the difficulties previously faced when traveling to Edinburgh. Others, like Margaret from Inverness, appreciated the ease of travel, allowing them to maintain their normal routine without the early morning trek to larger airports.

Cost Savings for Travelers

John and Anne Kirk from Nethy Bridge shared their excitement about the direct flight. They noted that traveling from Inverness saves them significant costs, such as parking and transportation to larger airports, amounting to around £300 in savings for some passengers.

A Long-Awaited Expansion

The direct flight route has taken nearly three years to develop. According to Scott Murray, the potential of Inverness Airport was always recognized by local business stakeholders. This new service opens up opportunities for Highland travelers, eliminating the need for lengthy layovers and complicated connections.

Gran Canaria is known for its warm climate and beautiful landscapes, making it an attractive winter destination. The introduction of this flight marks a positive step forward for local tourism and travel convenience, aiming to benefit the community significantly.