KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has celebrated ten years of operating from Inverness Airport, marking a decade of international connections between the Highlands and destinations across the globe.

The airline first launched flights from Inverness in the summer of 2016 and now operates two daily services between Inverness and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, with an additional service being introduced during July and August this year.

Over the past decade the route has become one of the Highlands’ most important international links, giving passengers access to more than 160 destinations across Europe, North America, Asia and beyond through KLM’s global network.

The connection has helped strengthen tourism, business travel and family links across the Highlands, while also making it easier for international visitors to reach the north of Scotland.

Recent booking data from KLM shows strong demand for international travel both from and into Inverness.

Outside the Netherlands, the most popular European destinations for Highland travellers are France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

China, Thailand and the United States continue to rank among the leading long haul destinations booked through the Inverness service.

Inbound travel into the Highlands also remains strong, with Austria, Denmark, France, Germany and Italy among the leading European markets using the route into Inverness.

Canada, China and the United States are also among the strongest long haul markets for visitors travelling into the Highlands through Amsterdam.

Jerome Salemi, General Manager Air France KLM UK and Ireland, said:

“Reaching ten years of operations in Inverness is a proud milestone for KLM and reflects the strength of our long standing partnership with the airport and the region.

“Over the past decade, we have seen how important international connectivity is for local communities, businesses and tourism across the Highlands.”

Dan Mason, Inverness Airport Manager, said:

“Over the past ten years, KLM’s services from Inverness have provided an important link between the Highlands and the rest of the world.

“The route has supported business connectivity, tourism and access to global markets, while also giving local communities greater choice and convenience when travelling internationally.

“We are proud to celebrate this milestone with KLM and look forward to continuing our strong partnership in the years ahead.”

For many people across the Highlands the Amsterdam route has become more than simply an airport connection, allowing travellers to reach major cities and economies around the world without first needing to travel through central Scotland or England.

The continued expansion of services also reflects growing confidence in the Highlands as both a tourism destination and a region with increasing international business links.

As KLM marks its tenth anniversary in Inverness, the milestone highlights how international connectivity has quietly become an important part of modern Highland life and the wider regional economy.