Wick-based operator Aarons has announced that its A9 service between Inverness and Caithness, which was launched to compete with Stagecoach’s X99 in September, will cease to operate. Aaron Wilson, the owner of Aarons of Wick, announced on social media that despite popular support, the service was not proving viable and has run at a loss. The service departed for Inverness at 0815hrs daily, serving Thurso, Castletown, Wick, before heading south towards the Highland capital. The service was launched following criticism by some of the use of Plaxton Elite i overdeckers on Stagecoach’s X99 service, meaning more steps to board and alight, although there is a limited low floor area at the front for wheelchairs with a small number of seats.
Aaron thanked the well-wishers on social media and said that he intends to focus on private hire and cruise ship passengers. “I want to thank everyone that has used our services – it has been a pleasure working with the public. Myself and my drivers have made good friends with people coming on and of the service bus,” he said.
