An airline has revealed that its latest revamped plane will be named “Spirit of Caithness” because of its links to the county.
Iain Alexander Gunn, the Chief of Clan Gunn, attended an official unveiling ceremony for the Loganair’s upgraded Saab 340.
Loganair has been operating daily services to Edinburgh from Wick John O’Groats Airport for more than 35 years, acting as a vital link to the central belt.
The aircraft is the third in the Scottish carrier’s 13-strong Saab 340 fleet to undergo a full internal refit as part of a £3.5million renewal programme.
It has been completely refitted, repainted and upgraded at a cost of nearly £270,000.
Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair’s managing director, said: “As an airline which serves remote communities across Scotland, it’s extremely fitting to name this plane in honour of Caithness.
“It’s our most northerly operating base on the mainland and the route is a gateway to the rest of the UK and indeed, beyond for the people who use it.
“It’s great to see the new colour scheme on the Saab 340 and I’m confident our customers will be pleased with the modernisation of the aircraft’s interior.
“We’re continuing this extensive programme of investment to our fleet and feedback has been really positive.”
He added: “I’d also like to thank Chief Gunn for coming along to see the aircraft and we’re extremely proud to host him, given his family’s extensive historical ties to the area.”
Iain Gunn of Gunn said: “It’s fantastic to see Caithness being recognised in this unique way.
“This airport is really important to people in the region and I think it’s tremendous to have an aircraft christened to reflect this distinct heritage.”
Improvements to the aircraft include the installation of new lightweight, ergonomically-designed modern seating to provide improved leg room.
Interior panels were re-covered to help reduce vibration and latest sound-proofing technology was fitted to improve cabin acoustics, while new LED lighting and carpeting have also helped to raise comfort levels.
The first aircraft in the renewal programme was named “The Spirit of Orkney”.
The investment follows reliability concerns raised in recent years about some Loganair services.
