In many travel destinations, airplanes are often the only option for long-distance travel, but in Scotland, a country blessed with stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, you can easily get around without a car. However, for those planning to visit Scotland’s remote islands, flying is often the most convenient choice. Despite the country’s relatively small size, there are several beautiful islands that are quite far from the mainland, and flying there not only saves time but also provides a unique opportunity to enjoy breathtaking aerial views.
I want to share with you how to easily travel around Scotland by air and some useful tips for flying to the country’s remote islands.
Major Airports in Mainland Scotland
While train and bus travel are the most common ways to get around Scotland’s main cities, flying is still the best option if you need to travel between cities or explore farther reaches of the country. Here are some of the most important airports in Scotland that offer convenient flight connections.
Edinburgh Airport
As Scotland’s busiest airport, Edinburgh Airport is the main international gateway for most visitors to Scotland. It offers numerous domestic flights connecting Scotland to other major cities in the UK and Europe, as well as long-haul flights to North America and beyond.
When I arrived here, I was impressed by the airport’s facilities, and I quickly found that it’s not just a hub for international flights, but also a key starting point for domestic travel across Scotland. If you’re planning to travel to other cities or islands within Scotland, it’s convenient to catch a flight from Edinburgh Airport, whether you’re heading to Glasgow or further afield.
Edinburgh Airport is only about 12 kilometers from the city center, and you can easily reach downtown by bus or taxi. If you’re traveling to other areas of Scotland, the airport serves as a major departure point for many domestic flights.
Glasgow International Airport
Glasgow International Airport is Scotland’s second-largest airport, located about 10 kilometers from the city center. This airport offers a wide range of international and domestic flights, including connections from major cities in Europe, North America, and beyond.
From Glasgow, you can fly to other Scottish cities and islands, making it a convenient base for exploring Scotland. For example, if you want to travel to some of the remote islands in the west, such as the Isle of Skye or the Outer Hebrides, this airport will be a key departure point.
The airport is easily accessible from the city center, either by bus, taxi, or car, making it a great option for those starting their journey in Glasgow.
Aberdeen Airport
Aberdeen Airport, located in the northeast of Scotland, is the airport to use if you’re heading to the region’s spectacular coastal landscapes or the famous whisky trail. The airport is primarily used for domestic flights connecting to cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
Aberdeen Airport is about 7 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a bus, taxi, or airport shuttle to get to downtown Aberdeen. The airport also serves as a key departure point for flights to the Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands.
Flights to Scotland’s Islands
Scotland is home to many beautiful islands, and getting to some of them requires a short flight. These islands offer unique experiences, from rugged coastlines to ancient ruins, making them must-visit destinations for those looking for adventure. Here are some of the key island routes to consider:
Barra Island (Outer Hebrides)
Barra Island is one of the most remote and unique islands in Scotland, located in the Outer Hebrides. The Barra Island Airport is famous for its runway that stretches across a beach, and it’s one of the few airports in the world where planes land directly on the beach.
Loganair operates flights from Glasgow and Edinburgh to Barra Island, with a flight time of approximately one hour. The island is known for its beautiful landscapes, sandy beaches, and a slower pace of life, making it a peaceful escape for nature lovers. The experience of landing on Barra’s runway, right on the beach, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I highly recommend to adventurous travelers.
Benbecula Island (Outer Hebrides)
Benbecula is another island in the Outer Hebrides, easily accessible by flights operated by Loganair from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Flight time is about an hour. Benbecula is a quiet island surrounded by stunning beaches and waters, and it’s an excellent base for exploring the surrounding islands.
Loganair connects Benbecula with the Scottish mainland and other islands in the region, making it easy for travelers to visit not just Benbecula itself, but also the nearby islands in the Outer Hebrides.
Orkney Islands
Located to the northeast of Scotland, the Orkney Islands are a fascinating destination for history buffs, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience the rugged beauty of the northern Scottish coast. Flights to Orkney depart from Aberdeen and Edinburgh, with flights from Aberdeen to Kirkwall taking just over an hour.
The Orkney Islands offer a wealth of prehistoric sites, including Neolithic stone circles and ancient burial sites, making it a great place to explore Scotland’s rich history. The islands also offer fantastic opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
Loganair operates flights from mainland Scotland to the Orkney Islands, providing a convenient way for travelers to reach this remote and unique destination.
Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands are located even farther north than the Orkney Islands and are known for their wild, rugged beauty and fascinating Viking heritage. The Shetland Islands are accessible via flights from Aberdeen and Glasgow, with flight times around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Loganair operates flights to Shetland from mainland Scotland, with regular services between Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Lerwick, the capital of the Shetlands. Shetland is a haven for wildlife lovers, offering an incredible variety of seabirds, seals, and other marine life. It’s also home to some spectacular coastline and dramatic landscapes, perfect for hiking and exploring.
Tips for Booking Flights
- Book Early: Flights to Scotland’s islands can be limited, especially during peak seasons. It’s best to book your flights early to secure a seat and ensure you get the travel dates you want.
- Look for Discounts and Deals: Airlines like Loganair often offer special deals and discounts, so keep an eye on their official websites or major travel booking platforms to take advantage of promotions.
- Check Flight Schedules: Since weather conditions can sometimes affect flights to remote islands, it’s important to confirm flight schedules ahead of time to avoid disruptions to your travel plans.
Whether you’re flying from one Scottish city to another or venturing out to one of Scotland’s stunning remote islands, Scotland’s air travel network offers a convenient and efficient way to explore the country. Flying is the easiest way to reach many of Scotland’s islands, saving you time and giving you the chance to admire some incredible aerial views. If you’re planning to visit one of the more remote parts of Scotland, be sure to book your flights in advance, check for discounts, and take the time to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes from above.