More than 170,000 golf fans, the world’s media and of course the players themselves will be descending on Carnoustie over the next few days, as excitement mounts for the Open next week.
For the fortunate few who will arrive by private jet, Dundee is the closest airport and staff there have been gearing up for an estimated 80-100 aircraft movements over the tournament week.
It means a busy week ahead for ground crews, handling and air traffic control.
During the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in 2016, there were 15 private jets sitting on the ramp at one point, with a combined value of around £500 million.
Few big birds ? parked up for @TheOpen @carnoustiecntry. Still room for a few more. #sunnydundee #gatewaytogolf pic.twitter.com/MIPweJNXPD
— Dundee Airport (@DNDAirport) July 12, 2018
We are putting?️♀️⛳️ them away here at the airport as arrivals for @TheOpen begin to arrive. #bestweeairport @carnoustiecntry #vipservice #sunnydundee ☀️ pic.twitter.com/nPUFEgNUKM
— Dundee Airport (@DNDAirport) July 10, 2018
Derrick Lang, Dundee Airport Manager said: “During the Open, the airport experiences an increase in air traffic, which brings with it an increase in landing and parking fees – both of which are reinvested back into the airport.
“We are proud to play our part in making visitors feel welcome to this beautiful part of Scotland, and all of the airport team love to meet all of our customers coming to the area for the event.”
Mr Lang also highlighted the potential for longer term benefits to the area.
“We are perfectly located to service golf tourism as the area is blessed with some of the most historic and iconic courses in the country,” he said.
“Late last year we welcomed a series of chartered flights from Denmark from tour operators Green 2 Green with more booked for this year.”
