Elton given airport green light

The Rocket Man will fly out after the concert

Aberdeen Airport has lifted its night fights curfew to allow Sir Elton John to fly out of the city after a concert.

The Rocket Man, 57, will be allowed to jet off at 2330 BST on Friday, after he plays his only Scottish date at the city's Pittodrie Stadium.

Airport restrictions mean aircraft are not allowed to take off after 2300 BST or land after 2330 BST.

But the city council has decided to make an exception for the singer and said his visit was "a coup".

City planning convener councillor Scott Cassie said it was reasonable that a man of Sir Elton's reputation should be allowed to fly.

'Not rush'

He said: "I was asked if I could extend the take-off time, and I said yes.

"It means that Elton can play on a bit and not rush away to get an early flight.

"Getting someone of that stature up to Aberdeen is a coup and it is only reasonable that we try to accommodate him."

Born Reginald Dwight in Pinner, London, Sir Elton's career began in 1965 as a pianist and singer with the band Bluesology.

He has gone on to become one of the most successful - and richest - pop entertainers of all time, selling more than 200 million records worldwide.