Kirkwall Airport

Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is not just an airport, but a true aerial gateway to the Orkney Islands, an archipelago with a rich history and breathtaking landscapes in the north of Scotland. Located near the islands' capital, the city of Kirkwall, it serves as a key transport hub connecting this remote region with the mainland of the United Kingdom. For many travellers, the acquaintance with the unique culture and nature of Orkney begins right here, in this small but homely and welcoming air harbour.

Features and Advantages

Despite its modest size, Kirkwall Airport plays a vital role in connecting the islands of the Orkney archipelago. It is from here that Loganair operates unique inter-island flights, including the world's shortest scheduled flight between the islands of Westray and Papa Westray, which lasts about two minutes. The airport offers all essential amenities for a comfortable wait: a cafe, a shop, and free Wi-Fi. Its location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring ancient monuments such as Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, as well as enjoying the rugged beauty of northern nature.

Below you will find contact information for Kirkwall Airport (KOI), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found on the official airport website, which is part of the HIAL (Highlands and Islands Airports) network.
• Information Desk Phone: For information, you can call +44 1856 860 600.
• Airport Address: Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1TH, United Kingdom.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the address info@hial.co.uk or fill out the feedback form on the website.
• Social Media: News and updates from the airport operator HIAL, including Kirkwall Airport, can be followed on their social media pages, such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you need to contact the baggage tracing service of your airline directly. Contacts are usually provided at the check-in counter or on the carrier's official website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to special assistance (for example, for passengers with reduced mobility), it is recommended to contact your airline and the airport via the main phone number in advance to arrange the necessary support.

Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is conveniently located just 4.5 km southeast of the city centre of Kirkwall, making the journey there quick and simple. Travellers can choose from several transport options to reach the main air hub of the Orkney Islands in the United Kingdom.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly method. Stagecoach buses (route No. 4) connect the airport with the centre of Kirkwall and the ferry terminal at St Margaret's Hope. The trip to the city takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run regularly throughout the day, but it is worth checking the current schedule in advance, especially if your flight arrives late in the evening or on a weekend.

Taxi and Transfer offer a higher level of comfort. The taxi rank is located right outside the terminal building exit. A trip to the city centre will take about 10 minutes and will cost significantly more than the bus. This is an excellent option if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a small group. During the peak tourist season or for night flights, it is recommended to book a taxi in advance.

Car Rental is the ideal choice for those who want to explore the Orkney Islands freely. Several rental agencies have counters located at Kirkwall Airport. Having your own transport will allow you to comfortably visit ancient monuments, picturesque coastlines, and remote corners of the Mainland. It is highly recommended to book a car well in advance, especially for the summer months, as demand is very high.

For travellers arriving by private car, the airport provides convenient parking. It is located just a few steps from the terminal and offers options for both short-term and long-term stays. This is a safe and reliable way to leave your car for the duration of your absence.

Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is a small and compact regional airport, making navigation through it extremely simple and convenient for travellers. Its structure reflects its primary function — servicing flights to and from the Orkney Islands.

Terminal Structure. Kirkwall Airport consists of one small terminal that handles all flights — both arrivals and departures. Due to its modest size, all key areas are within walking distance of each other, and there is no need for transfers between terminals.

Layout and Navigation. The interior space of the terminal is logically divided into several main zones:

• Check-in Zone: Located immediately at the building entrance. Here you will find airline counters where passengers drop off luggage and receive boarding passes.
• Departures Zone: After check-in, you pass through security control and enter a small waiting lounge. There are seating areas, a cafe, and restrooms here.
• Arrivals Zone: This is a separate section where arriving passengers enter after disembarking the aircraft. The luggage reclaim belt and car rental counters are located here.

Navigation is intuitive, and signs clearly lead passengers along the required route. It is practically impossible to get lost in Kirkwall Airport.

Processing Times and Recommendations. Check-in and screening procedures at Kirkwall Airport are very fast compared to large international airports. typically, even during peak times, there are almost no queues. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure. This time is more than sufficient to check in for your flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing.

The history of Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is a fascinating journey from a strategic military facility to a vital civil hub serving the Orkney Islands. The airport was built and opened in 1940 during the Second World War under the name RAF Grimsetter. Its primary task was the defence of the British naval base at Scapa Flow, which was of immense importance to the Royal Navy. Fighters based here played a key role in defending this area from aerial attacks.

After the war ended, the need for a large military base diminished, and in 1948, the airfield was transferred to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for use as a civil airport. This became a turning point in its history. From that time, Kirkwall Airport became the main aerial artery connecting the Orkney Islands with the Scottish mainland. It facilitated not only passenger transport but also the delivery of mail, medicines, and essential goods, playing a crucial role in the life of the island community.

Throughout its civil history, the airport has repeatedly undergone modernisation to meet contemporary standards of aviation safety and passenger comfort. In 1986, management of the airport was transferred to Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), which continues to invest in its development today. Works have been carried out to upgrade the runway, reconstruct the passenger terminal, and install modern navigation equipment, allowing it to accommodate modern turboprop aircraft.

Today, Kirkwall Airport is not just a transport hub, but the true aerial gateway to the unique world of the Orkney Islands with their rich Neolithic and Viking heritage. One interesting fact is that it serves as a hub for the famous inter-island flights, including the world's shortest scheduled flight between the islands of Westray and Papa Westray. Thus, the airport, born in the crucible of war, has transformed into a symbol of connection, accessibility, and the hospitality of northern Scotland.

Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is a compact and modern terminal serving as the main aerial gateway to the Orkney Islands. Despite its small size, it offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for your flight. Inside the terminal building, there is a cafe where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments. There is also a small shop offering newspapers, books, and souvenirs with local symbols — a great opportunity to buy last-minute gifts.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Charging points for electronic devices are provided in the waiting lounges, though their number may be limited. There are no dedicated business lounges in the airport, but comfortable waiting areas are equipped for passengers. Some airlines may offer access to special quiet zones for their clients — it is best to check this information with the carrier.

In the terminal, you will find ATMs for cash withdrawals. For passengers with small children, baby care rooms with changing tables are equipped. The airport is fully adapted for travellers with reduced mobility: ramps, accessible toilets, and special staff to provide assistance are available. To guarantee support, it is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline. Medical assistance is provided by airport staff in emergency cases.

There are no hotels directly within the airport building, but a multitude of accommodation options — from cosy guest houses to comfortable hotels — are located in the city of Kirkwall, just a few minutes' drive away. Specialized business centres or conference halls are not provided in the airport, but such services can be found in city hotels.

Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is a compact regional airport, so all main amenities, including dining, are concentrated in one place. Passengers will not have to search long for a place to have a snack before departure or after arrival.

The main and only dining establishment in the airport is the Airport Cafe. It is located in the main hall of the terminal, in the landside zone (before security control), making it accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. A friendly atmosphere of a small local cafe reigns here, rather than an impersonal chain restaurant.

The menu offers a good selection for a small airport. For a quick snack, you can grab freshly brewed coffee, tea, sandwiches, rolls, and various pastries. If you have more time, pay attention to substantial meals: soup of the day, hot breakfasts, or set lunches. The main highlight of the cafe is the use of local Orkney products. If possible, try dishes featuring Orkney cheese, beef, or fresh fish to experience the taste of the region.

The cafe offers a selection of beverages to accompany your meal. This is an excellent opportunity to sample local specialties and refreshing drinks. Prices in the cafe can be described as moderate, standard for British regional airports. The opening hours of the establishment are tied to the flight schedule, but it is usually open throughout the airport's operational day.

Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian options are generally available (for example, cheese sandwiches or vegetable soups). Passengers with specific requirements (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal-friendly options) are recommended to check the availability of suitable variants directly with the staff. Since all facilities are located before the security zone, it is best to eat here, as the selection in the sterile zone (airside) will be extremely limited or non-existent.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Kirkwall city goes as comfortably as possible, take advantage of our tips. This is a small regional airport, so processes here usually happen faster than in major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to drop off luggage without rushing, pass through security control, and reach the boarding gate.

To save time, use the online check-in option offered by most airlines. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening area. Security control here is standard for the United Kingdom, but thanks to low passenger traffic, queues are rare. When choosing a seat on the plane, prefer a window seat — during takeoff and landing, stunning views of the Orkney Islands open up.

Hand luggage rules are standard: liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects and other dangerous substances. Kirkwall Airport mainly serves domestic flights, so customs control is not relevant for most passengers. If you are arriving on an international flight, be prepared for standard border force procedures.

Passengers with transfers should note that Kirkwall rarely acts as a transit hub. If you have a connection planned at another airport (for example, in Aberdeen or Glasgow), check in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. To save money, book flight tickets in advance and carefully study the baggage allowance of your airline to avoid surcharges for excess weight.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. Contact a representative of your airline for information about the new departure time and your rights to compensation or service (provision of drinks, meals). Information screens in the departure lounge will also help keep you updated. Given the size of the airport, the number of shops and cafes is limited, so be prepared for this in the event of a long delay.