A second daily flight from Inverness to Amsterdam has been hailed as opening up the Highlands to the world.
Dutch airline KLM has confirmed it will more than double capacity on links between Inverness and Schiphol this summer.
The second daily flight will run between May 15 and October 28 on a larger 100-seat aircraft.
The Amsterdam airport is one of the world’s largest and provides easy access and transfers to international flights.
Inglis Lyon, managing director of Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd, said: “An extra flight will make a huge difference to passengers wishing to travel for business and pleasure.
“The early morning departure means travellers have more options for onward connections.”
“This is a fantastic commitment from the airline to the Highlands region and is mainly due to the 2016 passenger numbers punching above their weight.”
David Richardson, regional development manager of the Federation of Small Businesses, added: “It’s very good news indeed.
“It opens up the Highlands, not just to Europe but also to long haul flights to the rest of the world.”
Scottish Government transport minister Humza Yousaf called the announcement a “real vote of confidence” in Inverness Airport.
Highland Council leader Margaret Davidson said: “This news of a second daily flight between Inverness and Amsterdam is splendid news.
“This expanded service means we are better able to make the most of global connections between Schiphol and key markets throughout the world.
“This is great news for local businesses and in particular for tourism in the Highlands.”
Inverness-based businessman Tony Story, managing director of the Patio Hotel Group which operates the Kingsmills Hotel, said: “The more international flights we can attract to the Highlands the greater opportunities we have to welcome visitors to the region.
“Greater connectivity has obvious benefits for the local economy and opens up new business opportunities.”
Warner Rootliep, UK and Ireland manager of Air France-KLM said: “Demand for efficient, seamless and convenient schedules from Scotland continues to grow and we know how important connectivity is to the local Highland community.
“For this reason, we are pleased to offer more passengers access to our worldwide network via our award-winning hub at Amsterdam Schiphol. The additional service will also see an increase in inbound traffic and we are proud to be in a position to further support tourism and local business in the region.”