Highland Boeing B-747-123 G-HIOHO LN87 . Taken In 1988 . Editorial Image

The airline was formed in 1984 by Randolph Fields and operated a daily transatlantic nonstop service between Glasgow and Newark.Fields had been involved with the concept and start up of Virgin Atlantic, bringing Branson to the table as backer.Highland Express planned to officially launch on the day of the Scottish International Airshow in Glasgow on Saturday, 30 May 1987 to Newark and Toronto. However, the first scheduled flight using a Highland Express flight number actually took place a few days earlier. That flight used a hired Cargolux Boeing 747-200 as the airline's own Boeing 747 had not yet been delivered. Highland Express cabin crew were specially trained to operate this version of the 747 in time for this inaugural flight and wore the airline's tartan and green uniforms. Fields was on board the inaugural flight, and complimentary refreshments were served to celebrate.