Alderney Airport

Welcome to Alderney Airport — the northernmost aerial gateway to the Channel Islands! Opened back in 1935, it became the first airport in the region and retains its unique historical atmosphere to this day. It is not just a transport hub, but a starting point for a journey into the cozy and picturesque world of the island of Alderney, part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey. Its location makes it the closest Channel Islands airport to both the coast of England and the shores of France, adding strategic importance and special charm.

Despite its modest size, Alderney Airport possesses several remarkable features. It is the only airport in the Channel Islands that has three runways, although the main one, with an asphalt surface, is used for scheduled flights. This configuration allows for the reception of small aircraft in various weather conditions, ensuring stable connection with the outside world.

For travellers, the main advantages of the airport are its compactness and lack of hustle typical of large aviation hubs. Check-in and control procedures take place here quickly and in a calm environment. The terminal building, built in 1968, has everything necessary, including a check-in desk, a departure lounge, and even a Duty Free shop. The airport fits perfectly into the general atmosphere of the island: everything here is homely and aimed at the maximum comfort of passengers beginning their acquaintance with the charming island of Alderney.

• Official Website: On the official portal of Guernsey airports, you will find flight schedules, news, and other important information. Visit www.airport.gg/alderney-airport.
• Help Desk Phone: For immediate information regarding flights, airport services, and other enquiries, you can call: +44 1481 822851.
• Airport Address: The airport is located at: Le Grand Val, Alderney, GY9 3XD, Guernsey.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the official e-mail: alderneyairport@gov.gg.
• Social Media: Currently, Alderney Airport does not have separate official pages on social networks. It is recommended to track all current information on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you must immediately contact your airline's representative. The airport does not handle luggage tracing directly; this service is provided by the carriers.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, please contact the main help desk phone +44 1481 822851.

Alderney Airport (ACI) is located in the very heart of the small but charming island of Alderney, part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey. Thanks to the compact size of the island, getting to the airport from the main town of St Anne or any other point is effortless and takes very little time. There are no traffic jams or complex transport interchanges here, making the trip to the airport quick and pleasant.

Taxis and Transfers are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. The trip from St Anne will take just 5-10 minutes. Several taxi services operate on the island, and it is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. The cost of the trip is low due to the short distance. Some hotels may also offer a transfer service to their guests.

Public Transport on the island is poorly developed due to its small size. There is no specialised bus route to the airport. The main form of public transport is the historic train, which runs along a scenic route for tourism purposes and is not suitable for airport transfers. Therefore, travellers should rely on taxis or car rental.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively explore the island. Several local companies offer rental services. You can arrange to collect the car directly at the airport upon arrival. This will give you complete freedom of movement around all corners of Alderney. Driving on the island is calm, and the maximum speed limit is low, allowing you to enjoy the views.

Parking at the Airport is very simple and convenient. Next to the terminal, there are parking spaces for both short-term and long-term parking. Problems with finding a free space usually do not arise. For those travelling in their own or rented car, this is a reliable and accessible option.

Alderney Airport (ACI) is a very compact and cosy airport, where orientation is extremely simple. Its structure is designed for the maximum convenience of passengers travelling on small aircraft.

The airport operates only one passenger terminal. This small building serves all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about transfers between terminals or search for the right zone for a long time. Everything is located in a single space, making navigation intuitively understandable even for those here for the first time.

The terminal layout is very simple. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the main hall, where the check-in counters are located. The departure zone includes a small waiting lounge after passing security control. The arrival zone is located right here — passengers, after disembarking from the aircraft, enter the baggage claim hall, located a few steps from the main exit of the building.

Passing through all pre-flight procedures, including check-in and screening, usually takes significantly less time than in large airports. Due to the low passenger flow, queues here are a rarity. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport about an hour before departure to check in luggage and pass control without rushing. In general, getting lost in Alderney Airport is practically impossible — all services and boarding gates are within sight.

The history of Alderney Airport (ACI) dates back to 1935, when it was grandly opened, becoming the first airport in the Channel Islands. Originally built by the UK government, it was an airfield with three grass runways, which was the standard for that time. The opening of air links was a major event for the island, significantly improving its transport accessibility.

The most dramatic period in the airport's history occurred during the Second World War. After the occupation of the Channel Islands by German forces, the airport was seized and used by the Luftwaffe. It was during this time that the main runway (08/26) was covered with concrete to service military aircraft. Traces of this period remain part of the airport's infrastructure to this day, reminding us of its complex history.

After the end of the war, the airport returned to peaceful life and again began to fulfil its main function — connecting Alderney with the outside world. An important stage of development was the construction of a new terminal building in 1968, which, after several modernisations, serves passengers today. In subsequent decades, the main runway was covered with asphalt, while the other two (03/21 and 13/31) were preserved with a grass surface, which is a unique feature of the airport.

Today, Alderney Airport is not just a transport hub, but a true historical landmark and a vital facility for the island, part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey. It has preserved its unique charm, combining modern flight safety requirements with a unique heritage of the past. Its status as one of the few commercial airports in the UK with operating grass runways makes it a truly special place.

Alderney Airport (ACI) is a small and cosy regional airport serving the island of the same name within the Bailiwick of Guernsey. Given its compact size, the range of services here is basic but sufficient for a comfortable wait for a flight. Do not expect the infrastructure of a major international hub, however, all the essentials for passengers are provided.

Inside the terminal, there is a small café where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments before departure. The range of shops is limited, so for full shopping, it is better to allocate time in the town. Specialised VIP lounges or business lounges are absent at Alderney Airport; the atmosphere here is rather homely and calm.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal. The number of power outlets for charging electronic devices may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank. It is important to note that there are no bank branches or currency exchange points at the airport. All financial transactions, including cash withdrawals, are best done in advance at ATMs in the main town of St Anne.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with reduced mobility. For assistance, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance regarding the need for accompaniment. For travellers with small children, changing tables are provided in the restrooms. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, thanks to the small size of the island, any hotel or guest house is just a few minutes' drive by taxi. Business services, such as conference rooms, are not provided at the airport.

The airport of Alderney Island is a very compact and cosy aviation hub, so the dining options are appropriate. Do not expect a large variety of restaurants as in major international hubs. The main and, essentially, the only place where you can have a snack is the airport café, The Aviator Cafe. It serves all passengers and guests of the airport.

The café is located in the main terminal building, in the public area (landside), so it is accessible to both departing and arriving passengers as well as well-wishers. It offers a classic British café assortment. For a full lunch or breakfast, you can order a traditional English breakfast, and for a quick snack — sandwiches, pastries, cakes, and muffins. Of course, hot and cold beverages are always available: tea, coffee, juices.

Regarding special dietary requests, the choice in the small café may be limited. Usually, one can find simple vegetarian options, for example, a cheese sandwich. Regarding Halal, gluten-free, or other specific dietary requirements, it is best to check directly with the staff regarding ingredients — they are always ready to help if it is within their power. Prices in the café are quite moderate, typical for a small regional airport.

The opening hours of The Aviator Cafe are generally tied to the flight schedule to serve all passengers. It is an ideal place to drink a cup of coffee before a flight or eat a hearty sandwich while enjoying the calm atmosphere of the small island.

Travelling through Alderney Airport is an experience completely unlike the bustle of major international hubs. It is a small, almost homely airport where all procedures are fast and calm. Nevertheless, a few tips will help make your journey even more comfortable.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Thanks to the compact size of the terminal and the small number of flights, you do not need to arrive three hours before departure. Usually, arriving 60-75 minutes before departure is sufficient. This time is enough to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security: The check-in and screening process here is very quick. However, despite the small size of the airport, security rules are standard. Be prepared to present your boarding pass and identification, as well as remove electronics and liquids when passing through screening.

Seat Selection on the Plane: Flights to and from Alderney are usually operated on small propeller aircraft. In such liners, practically all window seats are good. Choose any to enjoy breathtaking views of the English Channel and other islands of the Guernsey archipelago during takeoff and landing.

Hand Luggage: Standard international rules apply here too. All liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in one transparent resealable bag. Sharp and cutting objects are prohibited. Please note that on small aircraft, there may be stricter restrictions on the weight and size of hand luggage, so it is better to clarify this information on the airline's website in advance.

Customs Control: Guernsey, including Alderney, is part of the Common Travel Area along with the UK, Ireland, and other Channel Islands. This means that for flights within this zone, passport control is generally not conducted. However, customs checks regarding the transport of goods may be carried out selectively.

For Passengers with Connections: It is important to understand that Alderney Airport is not a transit hub. If your route includes a transfer, for example, at Guernsey or Southampton airports, you will need to collect your luggage yourself, exit the arrival zone, and then check in again for the next flight. Be sure to allocate enough time between flights for these procedures, as the transfer will not be automatic.

Saving Time and Money: The main way to save is to book tickets in advance, especially for the summer season when demand is high. To save time, check in for your flight online if your airline provides such an option. Also, try to travel light to avoid surcharges for excess baggage, which can be substantial on small flights.

In Case of Flight Delay: Weather in the Channel Islands, especially fog, can cause delays or cancellations. Always check the status of your flight on the airline's website before leaving for the airport. If the flight is delayed, airport staff will provide you with all necessary information. Given the modest size of the terminal, during a long delay, it may be more comfortable to wait for new information in a hotel or café if you are nearby.