Aberdeen International Airport

Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is not merely the air gateway to North East Scotland, but also the world's busiest commercial heliport, serving the offshore oil and gas industry of the North Sea. Located just 9 kilometres from the city centre of Aberdeen, it acts as a key transport hub for the Grampian region and a starting point for journeys through the picturesque corners of the United Kingdom. The airport combines the lively atmosphere of an international hub with the convenience of a compact terminal, making it popular among both business travellers and tourists.

One of the main features of Aberdeen Airport is its unique status as a helicopter hub of global significance, with several separate terminals servicing rotary-wing aircraft. For fixed-wing passengers, a single modern terminal operates, which significantly simplifies navigation: the check-in area is located on the ground floor, while departure lounges are on the first floor. Travellers have access to various shops, cafes, and restaurants, business lounges for comfortable waiting, as well as a Fast Track service for expedited security clearance. Excellent transport links, including regular buses to the city centre, allow you to reach your destination quickly and conveniently.

If you need to contact Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) to clarify details of your flight or obtain other information, please use the contact details below. We recommend always checking the official airport website for the most up-to-date information before travelling.

• Official Website: www.aberdeenairport.com — this is the primary source for the latest schedule information, services, and passenger regulations.
• Helpline Phone: +44 (0)344 481 6666. You can receive assistance with general enquiries at this number.
• Address: Dyce, Aberdeen, Scotland, AB21 7DU, United Kingdom.
• Email: For most enquiries, the airport recommends using the contact forms on the official website. This ensures your question is directed to the correct department for a faster response.
• Social Media: To stay informed about the latest news and operational updates, follow the official pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Property Information: If you have left items in the terminal, please contact the Luggage-Point service on 0330 223 0893. For baggage lost during a flight, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: If you or your family members require special assistance, such as for passengers with reduced mobility, it is recommended to notify the airport in advance via online forms or the general phone number.

Reaching Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) from the city centre of Aberdeen and its surroundings is possible via several methods. The airport is situated approximately 11 km northwest of the centre and boasts convenient transport links.

Public Transport is the most popular and economical option. The main carrier is the Jet Service 727 bus by Stagecoach, which runs between the Union Square bus station in the city centre and the airport terminal. Buses run very frequently, up to 7 days a week, and the journey takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Tickets can be purchased from the driver. The nearest railway station is Dyce, located approximately 3 km from the airport. From the station to the terminal, you can take the dedicated 80 Jet Connect bus or a taxi in 5-10 minutes.

Taxis and Private Transfers offer the quickest and most comfortable method. A taxi ride from central Aberdeen will take about 20-30 minutes. This is an ideal option for travellers with significant luggage or those who value personal space and privacy. The official taxi rank is located directly outside the terminal exit. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which sometimes allows for savings and guarantees a vehicle at the required time.

If you are travelling by personal or rental car, getting to the airport is straightforward. It is conveniently located near the A96 road (Aberdeen – Inverness). Various types of parking are available at the airport: Short Stay for quick drop-offs or pick-ups, and Long Stay for those leaving their car for the duration of their trip. It is strongly recommended to book a parking space online in advance, as this is often significantly cheaper than paying on arrival.

Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) features one main passenger terminal that serves all domestic and international flights. This compact structure makes navigation through the airport simple and intuitive, even for first-time visitors. In addition to the main passenger terminal, the airport has separate facilities for helicopter operations serving the oil and gas industry, though tourists generally do not interact with these.

The terminal layout is logical and well-designed. The ground floor houses the Check-in area and Arrivals. After checking in, passengers proceed to the upper level to pass through security control and enter the Departures area. Because everything is located within one building, moving between zones takes minimal time, and there is no need to use shuttles or navigate long corridors as in larger multi-terminal airports.

The Departures area consists of a spacious hall with boarding gates. Here, passengers will find everything needed for a comfortable wait: shops, including Duty-Free, various cafes and restaurants, as well as business lounges. The Arrivals area is on the ground floor and includes baggage reclaim belts and customs control. The exit leads directly into the public hall, where you can meet arriving passengers, order a taxi, or find car rental desks.

Check-in and security procedures at Aberdeen Airport generally proceed quite quickly. However, it is recommended to arrive in advance: approximately 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours before for international flights. During peak hours, especially in the mornings and holiday periods, waiting times at security may increase. For navigation, simply follow the clear signage in English, which will guide you from the terminal entrance to your boarding gate.

The history of Aberdeen Airport is a fascinating narrative of transformation from a modest airfield into a key transport hub for Northern Europe. The airport was officially opened on 28 July 1934 under the name Dyce Airport and was originally created to provide air links between the north of Scotland and London. From the very beginning, it played an important role in the development of regional aviation in the United Kingdom.

With the outbreak of the Second World War, civil operations were suspended, and the airport was transferred to the Royal Air Force, becoming RAF Dyce. During the war years, it served as a crucial base for fighter aviation and reconnaissance aircraft patrolling the North Sea. This period left a significant mark on the airport's history, laying the foundation for its future strategic importance.

A turning point in the airport's history was the discovery of oil fields in the North Sea in the late 1960s and early 1970s. This event triggered a genuine economic boom in Aberdeen, with the airport at its epicentre. To service the growing needs of the oil and gas industry, a new main terminal was opened in 1977, designed to handle both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. It was then that Aberdeen's heliport became one of the busiest in the world, ensuring the transport of thousands of workers to offshore platforms.

In subsequent decades, the airport continued to develop. In 1987, it was privatised as part of BAA (British Airports Authority). In the 21st century, a large-scale modernisation programme was carried out. The most significant project was the three-year terminal transformation, completed in 2019. As part of this project, the terminal area was increased by 50%, and security zones, departure lounges, and retail spaces were updated, significantly improving the quality of passenger service.

Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) offers passengers a thoughtful range of services to make waiting for flights as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything you need here — from various cafes to comfortable lounges.

For those feeling hungry, the terminal features several restaurants and cafes where you can grab a quick sandwich and coffee or enjoy a full meal. After passing through security, shops become available, including Duty Free with a wide selection of perfumes, confectionery, and souvenirs. Here you can also find shops offering travel essentials and the latest press.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. Numerous power outlets and USB ports are provided for charging electronic devices, located in seating areas and near boarding gates. If you are looking for greater comfort, paid lounges are at your service, such as the Northern Lights Executive Lounge, where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere enjoying snacks and beverages.

For financial matters, the airport has ATMs and currency exchange points. Travellers with children will appreciate the baby care rooms equipped with everything necessary for looking after little ones. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance — it is recommended to request this in advance through your airline. The airport is fully equipped for comfortable movement in wheelchairs.

If you have an early departure or late arrival planned, several hotels are located within walking distance of the terminal. For business travellers, the airport offers business services and conference room rentals, making it a convenient venue for meetings.

At Aberdeen Airport (ABZ), passengers will find diverse options for a snack or a full meal, located both before and after security control. Whether you are rushing for a flight or have time to relax, there is a suitable establishment here.

In the public area (landside), before passing security, you can visit coffee shops such as Costa Coffee. This is an ideal place to meet those seeing you off or to have a cup of coffee and a sandwich before check-in. Here you can refresh yourself quickly and reasonably affordably without entering the departure zone.

The majority of restaurants and dining venues are located in the departure lounge (airside), after security. Here the choice is significantly wider. Passengers can visit establishments like The Granite City or The Distilling House, which serve hot meals, including traditional breakfasts, hearty lunches, and dinners. This is a wonderful opportunity to try dishes made from the famous Aberdeen Angus beef or enjoy local beverages.

For those looking for faster options, "grab-and-go" outlets operate in the departure zone, where you can buy ready-made sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Most establishments offer options for passengers with special dietary needs: typically, the menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. We recommend checking with staff regarding Halal options. The price range is average for airports: a quick snack will cost less than a full lunch in a restaurant.

The opening hours of most cafes and restaurants are adapted to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the last aircraft departs. Thus, for a full lunch and an introduction to local cuisine, restaurants in the departure zone are best suited, while coffee shops in the public area are perfect for a quick coffee.

To ensure your journey through Aberdeen Airport goes as smoothly as possible, follow these tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This will give you enough time for all pre-flight formalities without rushing, even during peak hours.

To save time, use online check-in, which most airlines open 24-48 hours before departure. This allows you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if travelling light, directly to security. When passing through security control, be ready to present your boarding pass and remove laptops, tablets, and liquid containers from your hand luggage in advance. Remember that liquids in hand luggage are permitted in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your priorities. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, especially if the weather in Scotland is clear. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to stand up during the flight or wish to be among the first to disembark after landing. If legroom comfort is important, choose seats near emergency exits, but note that restrictions may apply.

If you have a connection in Aberdeen, check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. The airport is not very large, so navigation will not be difficult, but always leave a sufficient time margin between flights. Customs control upon arrival in the United Kingdom is standard: have your passport ready. Follow the signs for your citizenship (e.g., UK/EU or All other passports) to pass through control faster.

In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for the latest information. Keep all receipts for food and drinks — depending on the length of the delay, you may be entitled to compensation. The airport offers cafes and shops where you can spend time waiting for departure. To save money, bring an empty water bottle which you can fill after passing security, along with small snacks.