Westray Airport

Westray Airport (WRY) is not just a runway on a picturesque island in the United Kingdom; it is a gateway to a world of unique records and authentic island life. It is from here that the world's shortest scheduled flight, listed in the Guinness Book of Records, departs. For travellers, this is not merely a transport hub, but a starting point for exploring the rugged beauty of the Orkney Islands, where every flight offers unforgettable impressions.

The main feature and distinction of Westray Airport is its role in operating the world's shortest commercial flight. The flight to the neighbouring island of Papa Westray lasts only about 90 seconds, covering a distance of 2.7 km. This route is not so much a tourist attraction as it is a vital transport artery for local residents, connecting the islands of the archipelago.

The airport itself consists of a small terminal with basic amenities, creating a cosy and almost home-like atmosphere. There is no hustle and bustle or queues typical of major aviation hubs here, and flight check-in is quick and without unnecessary formalities. Furthermore, the airport's location allows you to enjoy stunning views of the coast and green landscapes of Westray island right during takeoff and landing, which in itself becomes part of the journey.

Below you will find the main contact information for Westray Airport (WRY). Please note that this is a very small regional airport, and many services, such as baggage tracing, are provided directly by the airline.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by the Orkney Islands Council. All current information is published on their official portal in the airports section: www.orkneyharbours.com/airports.
• Helpdesk Phone: For enquiries related to airport operations, you can call +44 1857 677255.
• Airport Address: Aikerness, Westray, Orkney Islands, KW17 2BZ, United Kingdom.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the email of the Orkney Islands airport administration: oic.airports@orkney.gov.uk.
• Social Media: Westray Airport does not have separate official pages on social media. We recommend following news on the general resources of the Orkney Islands Council.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline directly that operated your flight (the main carrier on this route is Loganair).
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions regarding airport infrastructure, use the phone or email listed above. Questions related to tickets, check-in, and flight schedules should be addressed to your airline.

Westray Airport (WRY) serves as the air gateway to the island of the same name in the Orkney archipelago of the United Kingdom. Getting there is not difficult, as Westray island is very compact, and the airport itself is located just a few kilometres from Pierowall, the main settlement. The journey from the centre takes mere minutes; however, due to the specific nature of the island, transport is best organised in advance.

The most reliable way to get to the airport is by taxi or hired car. Several local operators work on the island, but their services are in high demand. It is extremely important to book a car or taxi well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as the number of vehicles is limited. Car rental is also an excellent solution for those planning to explore the island at their own pace. The trip from Pierowall to the airport usually takes no more than 5–10 minutes.

The public transport system on the island is not extensively developed. There are no familiar trains or metro systems here. Sometimes a local bus runs around the island, but its schedule is often tied to ferry arrivals and may not coincide with your flight time. This is the most budget-friendly way to travel, but be sure to check the current timetable before your trip.

For travellers with a personal or rented car, free parking is provided at the airport building. Given the modest size of the airport and low passenger traffic, finding a free space is generally not difficult.

Westray Airport (WRY) in the United Kingdom is a unique example of aviation infrastructure where simplicity and functionality are brought to the forefront. When speaking of terminals, it is important to understand that this airport differs radically from major international hubs. Here, travellers will find just one small terminal, which more closely resembles a cosy waiting room or a small pavilion. It serves all flights without exception, functioning as both the departure and arrival zone.

The layout of the airport is extremely simple: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the main and only hall. Here you will find the check-in desk, a small waiting area with several seats, and the exit to the airfield. There are no long corridors, signs, or multi-level transitions here, making navigation intuitively clear. Since there is only one terminal, the question of transfers between them does not arise — everything is located in one room, a few steps from each other.

Departure and arrival zones here are, in essence, not separated. Passengers waiting for their flight and those who have just arrived use the same space. The main feature of the terminal is its intimacy and lack of unnecessary services. You will not find Duty Free shops, restaurants, or business lounges here. The atmosphere is more reminiscent of a small bus station, which adds a special, almost domestic charm to the journey.

All pre-flight formalities at Westray Airport take a minimal amount of time. Flight check-in and security screening (if required for such short flights) are very quick. It is usually recommended to arrive at the airport 20-30 minutes before departure — this time is more than sufficient to check in luggage and take your seat in the waiting area without rushing. Thanks to this, travellers can avoid the stress typical of large airports.

The best recommendation for navigation at Westray Airport is simply to relax and enjoy the moment. Getting lost here is physically impossible. All staff are within direct line of sight and are always ready to help. This airport is a wonderful opportunity to feel the unique spirit of the Orkney Islands even before boarding the plane, which may take you to your destination in a record couple of minutes.

Westray Airport (WRY) is not just a runway, but an integral part of life on the Orkney Islands in the United Kingdom. Its history is inextricably linked with the launch of inter-island air services by Loganair, which began in 1967. It was then that the small airfield in Westray became a vital transport hub, which to this day ensures connection with the neighbouring islands of the archipelago.

The main achievement and most amazing fact in the airport's history is the servicing of the world's shortest scheduled commercial flight. The flight between the islands of Westray and Papa Westray is officially listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Its duration, depending on wind direction, ranges from one to two minutes, and the flight distance is only 2.7 km, which is shorter than the runways of many major airports worldwide.

Over the decades, Westray Airport has performed and continues to perform a primarily important social function. For local residents, this is not merely a tourist attraction, but a vital artery. Air transport is used to transport doctors and teachers, deliver mail and urgent cargo, as well as to move the islanders themselves, especially when ferry services are interrupted due to poor weather.

Unlike giant international hubs, Westray Airport cannot boast massive renovations and expansions. Its history is a history of stability and functionality. The infrastructure, managed by the Orkney Islands Council, is maintained in excellent working condition to fulfil its key task. Thus, the history of this unique airport is not a tale of concrete and steel, but a story of many years of faithful service to its small but very close-knit community.

Westray Airport (WRY) is a small regional airport on the Orkney Islands in the United Kingdom, playing a key role in the archipelago's transport network. Given its compact size and focus on short local flights, the range of services here is basic and aimed at ensuring quick and functional boarding.

The passenger terminal is equipped with a simple waiting area. It is important to know that there are no restaurants, cafes, or shops at Westray Airport. Travellers are advised to bring water and light snacks with them. Wi-Fi access and charging stations for electronic devices are generally not provided.

Financial and business services, such as bank branches, currency exchange points, ATMs, conference rooms, or business centres, are unavailable at the airport. There are also no VIP lounges or a specialised medical centre, although staff are ready to provide first aid if necessary.

For families travelling with small children, there are no separate mother and child rooms or play areas. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with the necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. For this, it is extremely important to contact your airline in advance and inform them of the need for accompaniment.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. Visitors can find accommodation options, including cosy guest houses and Bed & Breakfasts, on the island of Westray itself. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

It is important to understand that Westray Airport is a very small regional airfield serving some of the shortest flights in the world. Due to its compact size and operational specifics, there are no traditional restaurants, cafes, or bars on its premises. The airport infrastructure is minimal and designed for the rapid service of passengers on short inter-island flights.

Travellers departing from this airport are strongly advised to take care of food and drinks in advance. You can have a meal in the village of Pierowall, located nearby, before heading to the airport, or simply take light snacks with you. Considering that the flight to the neighbouring island of Papa Westray lasts less than two minutes, the absence of food outlets in the terminal building usually does not create serious inconvenience.

Travelling through Westray Airport is a unique experience, unlike flying from major international hubs. To ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible, use these tips, which take into account the specifics of the smallest airport in the United Kingdom.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Forget the "arrive three hours early" rule. The airport in Westray is tiny, and procedures here are very fast and informal. It is usually sufficient to arrive 45-60 minutes before departure. Flight check-in and security checks happen almost instantly and resemble boarding an intercity bus more than a plane.

Seat Selection and Flight Features. Flights are operated on small Britten-Norman Islander aircraft. Seats are generally not assigned in advance — you take any available one. Do not worry; due to the aircraft's design, practically any seat offers a breathtaking view of the Orkney Islands. The flight to the neighbouring island of Papa Westray is the shortest scheduled flight in the world and lasts about two minutes.

Hand Luggage and Baggage. Due to the small size of the aircraft, baggage allowances may be stricter than those of major airlines. Check current rules with your carrier (usually Loganair) when purchasing a ticket. General restrictions are standard: flammable liquids, weapons, and sharp objects are prohibited. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of up to 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag.

Transfers and Customs Control. Westray Airport serves only local flights. If you have a transfer to an international or another domestic flight planned, it will likely be at the main airport of the Orkney Islands — Kirkwall (KOI). Since all flights from Westray are domestic, there is no customs or passport control here.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book tickets in advance, especially during the tourist season. The main reason for flight delays in this region is changeable weather, particularly strong wind and fog. In case of schedule changes, maintain contact with the airline. There is not much entertainment in the airport building, so in the event of a long delay, it is better to stay in town or enjoy the island's nature, having first checked the new departure time.