Inverness Airport

Inverness Airport (INV) is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Located near the mysterious Loch Ness, it serves as a starting point for thousands of travellers eager to explore ancient castles, picturesque valleys, and the rugged beauty of northern Scotland. Despite its modest size, the airport offers a surprisingly high level of comfort and convenience, making it the perfect start to a grand adventure in one of the most colourful regions of the United Kingdom.

Inverness Airport, owned by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), is the key aviation hub for the entire north of Scotland. One of its main advantages is its compactness and well-thought-out logistics. Passengers do not have to spend much time navigating the terminal, which is especially valuable after a long flight. Everything necessary for a comfortable wait is available here: from duty-free shops and souvenir stalls featuring Scottish goods to cosy cafés where you can taste local dishes.

Travellers have access to services such as free Wi-Fi throughout the area, currency exchange points, ATMs, and car rental desks, allowing you to immediately set off on a journey through the Highlands. The airport is also fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility, offering special assistance and facilities. Thanks to regular flights to major cities in the United Kingdom and select European destinations, such as Amsterdam, Inverness Airport is becoming an increasingly popular choice for tourists.

Below is the contact information for Inverness Airport (INV), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any queries.

• Official Website: www.hial.co.uk/inverness-airport
• Information Service Telephone: +44 (0)1667 464000
• Address: Inverness Airport, Dalcross, Inverness, Scotland, IV2 7JB, United Kingdom
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: Follow airport updates and news on the official pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you must contact your airline's support service directly. For items left within the airport terminal, please contact the Lost Property service via the main telephone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passengers requiring special assistance should notify their airline no later than 48 hours before departure. The airline will forward the request to the appropriate airport services.

Inverness Airport (INV) is located approximately 15 km east of the city centre of Inverness, making it easily accessible for travellers. You can reach it in several convenient ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport: Bus
The most economical way to get from the airport to the city and back is by bus. The company Stagecoach operates the Jet Bus Service 11 route, which directly connects the airport with the central bus station in Inverness (next to the railway station). Buses run regularly throughout the day, usually at intervals of about 30 minutes. The journey takes approximately 25-30 minutes. This is an excellent choice for solo travellers and those looking to save money.

Taxi and Private Transfer
For maximum convenience, especially if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage, a taxi is the ideal option. The taxi rank is located right outside the terminal exit. The trip to the city centre will take just 15-20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is the fastest, albeit more expensive, method. For a guaranteed car and fixed price, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings and highlands of the United Kingdom, renting a car is the best choice. Counters for several major rental companies are located in the arrivals hall of Inverness Airport. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. For those arriving at the airport in their own car, both short-term and long-term parking options are available. Booking a parking space online in advance often helps secure a more favourable rate.

Inverness Airport (INV) is a compact and modern regional airport characterized by a simple and clear structure for passengers. All its operations are concentrated in one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic flights within the United Kingdom and international destinations.

Thanks to its compactness, navigating the airport is intuitive. The terminal is effectively divided into two main zones: departures and arrivals. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the general hall, where airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located. After completing check-in, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a cosy departure zone with gates.

The departure zone offers everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight: there are several shops, including souvenir and book shops, as well as cafés where you can have a snack or coffee. The arrival zone is no less functional: it includes the baggage claim hall and exits to the taxi rank, bus stops, and car rental points. Since there is only one terminal, no transfers between terminals are required — everything is within walking distance.

Passing through check-in and security procedures at Inverness Airport typically takes significantly less time than at major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2 hours before international ones. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without haste, pass security control, and relax a little before the flight.

The history of Inverness Airport (INV) is closely intertwined with key events of the 20th century. It was founded in 1940 during the Second World War and initially functioned as a Royal Air Force base known as RAF Dalcross. Its strategic location was ideal for protecting northern shipping routes and the naval base at Scapa Flow. After the war ended, the need for a military base diminished, and in 1947 the airfield was opened to civil aviation, marking the beginning of its new role as the aerial gateway to the Scottish Highlands.

The first civil flights were operated by British European Airways (BEA) to London. However, real growth began with the development of the oil and gas industry in the North Sea in the 1970s. During this period, the runway was significantly extended, allowing it to accommodate jet aircraft such as the Hawker Siddeley Trident and BAC One-Eleven. This made the airport a key transport hub for industry workers and contributed to the economic development of the region.

In subsequent decades, Inverness Airport was modernized repeatedly. New terminals were built, and infrastructure was expanded to serve the growing passenger flow. particularly significant was the arrival of low-cost airlines in the early 2000s, which made travel to Inverness more accessible for tourists from all over Europe. This led to record growth in passenger numbers and strengthened the airport's status as a vital gateway for discovering the beauties of the Highlands, including the famous Loch Ness.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history is its dual heritage. Although today it is known as the civilian Inverness Airport, many locals still habitually call it by its old name — Dalcross. Furthermore, throughout its history, the airport has repeatedly welcomed members of the Royal Family heading to their residence at Balmoral, highlighting its special significance for the United Kingdom.

Inverness Airport (INV), a key transport hub in the north of the United Kingdom, offers passengers a compact but well-equipped terminal with all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait. Conditions here are suitable for both tourists and business travellers.

Dining and Shopping. The airport has several cafés where you can drink coffee, have a sandwich, or order hot meals. In the shops, you will find travel essentials, Scottish souvenirs, including local specialities and woollen products, as well as newspapers. A duty-free shop operates in the departure zone, offering a standard assortment of beverages, perfumes, and confectionery.

Lounges and Comfort. For passengers seeking extra comfort, the Aspire Lounge is open. Here you can rest in silence, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and work in a peaceful environment. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous sockets and USB ports are provided for charging gadgets.

Services:

• Finance: ATMs are installed in the terminal building. A currency exchange point is available.
• For Families: For passengers with small children, baby care rooms with changing tables are equipped.
• Special Assistance: The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs and escort services are provided, which are recommended to be booked in advance through the airline.
• Medical Assistance: There is a first aid point at the airport.

Accommodation and Business. Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, hotels such as Courtyard by Marriott and Holiday Inn Express are within walking distance, which is very convenient for early departures or late arrivals. For business meetings, conference rooms can be rented at the Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) business centre, located next to the terminal.

Despite its compact size, Inverness Airport offers passengers several excellent options for a snack or a full meal before departure. The main dining establishments are located in the departure zone, after passing security control (airside), allowing you to relax while waiting for your flight.

The main place for lunch or dinner is The Stag and Thistle Bar and Kitchen. Here you can enjoy dishes with a view of the runway. The menu offers a wide selection: from a hearty Scottish breakfast and classic dishes, such as fish and chips, to more refined options using local Highland produce. This is an ideal place if you have enough time for a leisurely meal. We recommend trying some of the local specialities, such as dishes featuring Scottish salmon.

For those in a hurry, faster options are also available here. You can order fresh sandwiches, salads, pastries, and desserts. Of course, the menu presents a large selection of coffee, tea, juices, and other beverages. This is a great option to refresh yourself quickly without spending much time.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian dishes are always available on the menu. For information on vegan and gluten-free options, as well as dishes suitable for specific dietary requirements, it is best to check with the staff — they are always ready to help and suggest suitable variants. The price range is average for airports in the United Kingdom, meaning slightly higher than in city establishments. The opening hours of the restaurant and dining areas are generally synchronized with the flight schedule — they are open from the first to the last departure of the day.

Travelling through Inverness Airport (INV), the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, usually proceeds smoothly and without unnecessary stress thanks to its compact size. Nevertheless, a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights and 2-3 hours before international flights. This time will be sufficient to complete all procedures without rushing.

To save time, always use the option of online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your smartphone. Standard security rules apply at the screening stage: all liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags for separate scanning. Following these simple rules will significantly speed up passing through control.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from or arriving in Inverness, give preference to a window seat. You will likely be treated to breathtaking views of the lakes, mountains, and picturesque coast of Scotland. If comfort and the ability to leave the cabin quickly after landing are more important to you, choose an aisle seat.

For passengers with connections in Inverness, the process is usually simple, as everything happens in one terminal. Carefully follow the 'Flight Connections' signs. Check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Those arriving in the United Kingdom from outside the country must pass customs control. If you have no goods to declare, proceed confidently through the "Green Channel".

To save a little money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so bringing your own light snacks is also a good idea. Furthermore, book parking or taxis online in advance — this often proves cheaper than paying on the spot.

In the event of a flight delay, first contact a representative of your airline for information and instructions. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be entitled to meals, beverages, and even hotel accommodation in accordance with air passenger rights regulations. Inverness Airport offers free Wi-Fi, several cafés, and shops where you can pass the time while waiting for departure.