Tiree Airport

Tiree Airport (TRE) is not merely a runway on the edge of the United Kingdom, but the aerial gateway to one of the sunniest and most picturesque islands of the Inner Hebrides. It is here that nature enthusiasts, windsurfers, and travellers seeking solitude on the "Hawaii of the North" arrive. This small yet strategically important airport ensures a reliable connection with mainland Scotland and serves as the starting point for discovering unique island life.

The main feature of Tiree Airport is its intimate and friendly atmosphere. Forget the hustle and queues of major transport hubs; here, everything proceeds calmly and with a homely feel. The staff often know local residents by sight and treat tourists with sincere hospitality, which immediately sets the mood for a relaxing holiday.

Despite its modest size, the airport plays a key role in the life of the island. It not only provides year-round connections for locals but is also the main attraction point for tourists. Thanks to regular flights from Glasgow, it is easy to reach for anyone wishing to enjoy Tiree's famous beaches, which attract water sports enthusiasts from all over Europe.

Another undeniable advantage is the stunning views during takeoff and landing. The aircraft flies over the turquoise waters of the Atlantic, white sandy beaches, and traditional cottages, allowing you to appreciate the full beauty of the island from a bird's-eye view. The terminal itself is within walking distance of some of these magnificent beaches, so your adventure begins immediately upon arrival.

If you need to contact the administration of Tiree Airport (TRE), please use the following contact information.

• Official Website: hial.co.uk/tiree-airport
• Information Desk Phone: +44 (0)1879 220 456
• Airport Address: Tiree Airport, Isle of Tiree, Argyll, PA77 6UW, Scotland
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the online form on the airport's official website for communication.
• Social Media: The airport is managed by HIAL (Highlands and Islands Airports Limited). Current news can be found on their official social media pages, such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged checked baggage, you must contact the airline you flew with directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the airport information service via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all general questions related to airport services, you may contact the information desk at the phone number listed above.

Tiree Airport (TRE) is the air gateway to the charming island of Tiree, which is part of the Inner Hebrides of the United Kingdom. Due to its secluded location and compact size, the island's transport system has its own specific features. You can reach the airport, located in the central part of the island, in several ways, and the main advice for travellers is to plan everything in advance.

Public transport on the island is quite limited. There are no trains or metro systems here. The primary means of transport is the local bus, the schedule of which is often linked to the arrival and departure times of flights and ferries. This is the most budget-friendly option: a trip will cost just a few pounds. However, please note that services run infrequently. The journey from the island's main settlement, Scarinish, to the airport will take approximately 15-20 minutes. We recommend checking the current timetable before your trip.

Taxi and private transfer are the most comfortable and fastest way to get to the terminal. There is a limited number of private taxis operating on the island, so it is extremely important to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. A taxi ride from Scarinish to the airport takes only about 10 minutes and will cost approximately 10-15 Pounds Sterling. This option is more expensive than the bus but ensures maximum convenience and punctuality.

Car rental is an excellent choice for those who wish to freely explore every corner of Tiree. Several local rental companies offer a service to deliver the car directly to the airport upon your arrival. This provides complete independence in your movements. As with taxis, due to the small fleet of vehicles on the island, a car should be booked well in advance of your trip.

Next to the airport terminal, there is parking for private and rental cars. Given the low passenger traffic, finding a free space is usually not difficult. The parking area is within walking distance of the airport building entrance, which is very convenient for travellers with luggage.

The remoteness of Tiree Airport is also highlighted by the significant distance to the nearest regional airports, such as Barra Airport (approximately 69 km) and Glenegedale Airport (about 99 km), connections to which are possible by air or via ferry crossings.

Tiree Airport (TRE) is a small and cosy regional airport serving the island of the same name within the United Kingdom. It consists of one compact terminal where all necessary passenger services are concentrated. Thanks to this, navigation here is intuitively simple, and you won't have to worry about long walks or complex maps.

The structure of the terminal is extremely simple. Upon entering the building, you will immediately see the check-in counters. Next to them is the security checkpoint, after which passengers enter a small but comfortable departure lounge. The arrivals area is also integrated into the common space — arriving passengers exit directly into the main hall where they collect their luggage. Orienting yourself in Tiree Airport is incredibly easy, as all key points are within walking distance.

Check-in and security procedures at Tiree Airport are very fast. There are virtually no queues here, which distinguishes it favourably from major aviation hubs. It is recommended to arrive at the airport about an hour before departure, although in most cases, all formalities take no more than 15–20 minutes. This allows travellers to enjoy peace and quiet until the very last minute of their stay on the island.

Since the airport has only one terminal, the issue of transfers between terminals is irrelevant. All flights are handled in a single building. The main advice for navigation is not to worry. It is impossible to get lost here. The friendly staff are always ready to answer any questions and help you find your way. The atmosphere at Tiree Airport is more reminiscent of a small station, making the start or end of your journey particularly pleasant.

The history of Tiree Airport (TRE) is inextricably linked with key events of the 20th century. Its creation began not for civilian needs, but as a strategic military facility. The airfield was built during the Second World War and opened in 1941 as a Royal Air Force base (RAF Tiree). Its main task was patrolling the Atlantic Ocean and combating enemy submarines during the Battle of the Atlantic. In those years, squadrons based here played a vital role in ensuring the safety of maritime convoys.

After the war ended, the military significance of the airfield diminished, and it began its transition to civilian life. In the post-war years, the airport was transferred to the management of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, transforming into a vital transport artery for the island of Tiree. It ensured regular connections with the mainland of the United Kingdom, primarily with Glasgow, which was of immense importance for the local population, the economy, and the development of tourism. Over the decades, flights have been operated by various airlines, cementing the airport's status as an indispensable bridge connecting the island to the world.

Over time, the airport infrastructure has been modernised repeatedly to meet modern safety and passenger comfort standards. Although many elements of the original military construction can still be discerned in its layout, the terminal and runway are maintained in excellent condition. Today, the airport is managed by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), which specialises in serving remote and island airports in Scotland. This guarantees its stable operation and further development.

One of the most interesting facts about Tiree Airport is its dual nature: it is simultaneously an active transport hub and a living historical monument. Travellers can still see the remains of unused runways and some wartime structures. The airport's main achievement, however, is not passenger traffic records, but its many years of service as an indispensable pillar for the island community, providing communication, mail delivery, and emergency medical assistance.

Tiree Airport (TRE) is a small regional airport located on the eponymous island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. Given its compact size, the range of services here is focused on meeting basic passenger needs before departure. It is important to understand that this is not a major international hub, but rather an aerial gateway to a picturesque island.

There is no wide selection of restaurants or shops in the terminal building. Typically, a small café operates here, where you can buy hot and cold beverages as well as light snacks. The assortment is limited, so if you require a full meal, it is better to arrange this in advance. There are no separate luxury lounges or VIP zones in the airport; a general waiting hall is available for all passengers.

Passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. The number of sockets for charging gadgets may be limited, so it is worth bringing a portable power bank just in case. Banking services, including currency exchange and ATMs, are absent at the airport. It is recommended to conduct all financial operations in advance on the mainland of the United Kingdom.

For passengers with children, changing tables are equipped in the restrooms. Travellers with reduced mobility are provided with the necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. To access this, you must notify your airline in advance of the need for special assistance. There are no specialised medical centres, hotels, or conference rooms on the airport grounds. Accommodation options can be found in various parts of the island, a few minutes' drive from the terminal.

Tiree Airport (TRE) is a small and cosy regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here corresponds to its size. Instead of a large food court, you will find one charming café here that offers guests a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The main and only place to grab a bite is the airport café, located in the main terminal. It is situated landside, before security control, so it is accessible to departing passengers, arriving passengers, and those meeting them. The café is famous for its home baking, including traditional Scottish scones and cakes, which pair perfectly with a cup of hot tea or coffee. This is a great way to experience local hospitality.

The menu is focused on light lunches and quick snacks. Here you can order fresh sandwiches, the soup of the day, or other simple hot dishes. For those in a hurry, this is the ideal place to grab coffee and pastries to go. If you have time before your flight, you can leisurely enjoy a full lunch consisting of soup and a sandwich.

Regarding dietary preferences, due to the small size of the café, the selection may be limited. Basic vegetarian options are usually available, for example, a cheese sandwich or vegetable soup. If you have stricter requirements (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes), it is recommended to check their availability in advance or bring a suitable snack with you. Prices in the café are moderate, typical for small regional airports. The establishment's opening hours are usually linked to the flight schedule, so it is open to serve all passengers on flight days.

Travelling through a small regional airport like Tiree Airport has its own specifics. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, make use of our tips adapted for this cosy air hub in the Hebrides.

Arrival time at the airport: Tiree Airport is very compact, and large queues are rare here. It is recommended to arrive approximately 1-1.5 hours before your domestic flight departure. This time will be more than sufficient to check in and pass through security control without rushing. Always check your airline's recommendations.

Check-in and Security: Procedures at Tiree Airport usually proceed very quickly. You can check in for your flight online to save time, or do it at the counter at the airport. Security control is standard, but thanks to the low flow of passengers, it takes just a few minutes. Nevertheless, be prepared in advance and pack liquids and electronics in accordance with the rules.

Choosing a seat on the plane: Flights from Tiree are often operated on small propeller aircraft. To enjoy breathtaking views of the islands and the coast of the United Kingdom, choose a window seat. Note that on such aircraft, noise levels may be higher, especially in the rear section.

Hand luggage rules: Standard British aviation rules apply: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Pay special attention to weight and size restrictions for hand luggage set by your airline (often Loganair), as they may be stricter on small aircraft than on mainline flights.

Connecting passengers: Most flights from Tiree are bound for Glasgow, from where you can continue your journey. When purchasing a single ticket, your luggage will likely be checked through to your final destination. However, be sure to allow enough time for the transfer at the larger airport to calmly move to the next gate.

Customs control: Since flights from Tiree Airport are domestic (within the UK), there is no passport or customs control for passengers flying to the mainland. You will only need photo identification for check-in and boarding.

Saving time and money: The main way to save is to book tickets in advance, as prices for regional flights can rise significantly as the departure date approaches. Travelling with hand luggage only will also help avoid checked baggage fees.

In case of flight delay: Given the changeable weather on the islands, delays are possible. In the small terminal of Tiree Airport, leisure opportunities are limited, so bring a book, a charged power bank, and download films or music to your device. Airport staff will provide you with current information and explain your rights in the event of a long delay.