Oban Airport, operated by Argyll and Bute Council, played host to two surprise visitors last week to the delight of staff and passengers alike.

 A stunning Lockheed PV-1 Howard Ventura aircraft, built in 1962, visited the airport. Weighing in at over 15,800 kg this aircraft is capable of carrying up to 12 passengers and is only one of only two still flying of the original 30 built.

 As a thanks to the welcome received at the airport, passengers yesterday waiting to board the Hebridean Air Services flight out to the islands were treated to a final fly past as it continued its onward voyage.

Also playing a surprise visit to the airport was the Grammy-award winning singer Jay Kay, lead singer with the band Jamiroquai who was happy to chat to staff over a coffee before departing in his private helicopter.

Lead councillor for Development and Infrastructure John Semple said, “The council recently made a commitment to heighten the profile of the airport and flying visits by these sort of high-profile fliers helps enormously in emphasising the airport’s strategic importance.”