About flights from Kirkwall (KOI)
Kirkwall Airport feels like the kind of place that reminds you why regional flying still matters. It's small, it's functional, and it sits on Orkney's Mainland island with a view that'll make you forget you're about to board a turboprop. Six routes, one country, a reach score that's honestly modest — but that's not the point. The point is that without KOI, Orkney is significantly harder to reach. This airport is a lifeline as much as it is a departure gate.
Quick stats for KOI
- Direct destinations: 6
- Countries served: 1
- Continents reached: 1 of 6
- Average flight distance: 247 km
- Longest non-stop: Glasgow (GLA) — 356 km (~27 min)
- Shortest non-stop: Shetland Islands (LSI) — 137 km (~10 min)
- Reach score: 36/99
Why fly to Kirkwall?
Orkney doesn't get the tourist traffic it deserves, and that's partly what makes it worth the trip. The islands hold some of Europe's best-preserved Neolithic sites — Skara Brae alone is older than Stonehenge — and the has this raw, windswept quality that's hard to find anywhere closer to a major city. Loganair runs all the routes out of here, connecting to Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen, and Glasgow. That Glasgow flight covers just 356 km, which sounds short until you realize the alternative is a ferry plus hours of driving through the Highlands. For photographers, historians, or anyone who's burned out on over-touristed destinations, flying into Orkney is genuinely worth building a trip around.
Longest non-stop flights from KOI
The furthest destinations you can reach non-stop from Kirkwall:
- Glasgow, United Kingdom (GLA) — 356 km, approximately 27 min
- Edinburgh, United Kingdom (EDI) — 336 km, approximately 25 min
- Dundee, United Kingdom (DND) — 279 km, approximately 21 min
- Aberdeen, United Kingdom (ABZ) — 200 km, approximately 15 min
- Inverness, United Kingdom (INV) — 172 km, approximately 13 min
Short-haul flights from KOI
Quick getaway options with the shortest flights from Kirkwall:
- Shetland Islands, United Kingdom (LSI) — 137 km, approximately 10 min
- Inverness, United Kingdom (INV) — 172 km, approximately 13 min
- Aberdeen, United Kingdom (ABZ) — 200 km, approximately 15 min
- Dundee, United Kingdom (DND) — 279 km, approximately 21 min
- Edinburgh, United Kingdom (EDI) — 336 km, approximately 25 min
Tips for travelers at KOI
The airport is about two miles from Kirkwall town center, and a taxi takes maybe ten minutes. Car hire is available on-site, which I'd actually recommend — Orkney's sights are spread across the island and public transport is limited. Loganair dominates completely here, so book early when you can since seats on these routes are few and prices climb fast. Winter flying on the northern island routes can get disrupted by weather, so keep your schedule flexible if you're traveling between November and February. Pack layers regardless of season.
Airlines operating from KOI
The following airlines offer non-stop flights from Kirkwall:
LM
Frequently asked questions about flying to Kirkwall
How do I get from Kirkwall Airport to the city center?
Kirkwall Airport is only about 3 miles from the city center, so you can take a local bus, grab a taxi, or rent a car—most visitors find a taxi the quickest option at around £10-15 for the short trip.
What's the best time to fly to or from Kirkwall?
Summer months (June-August) offer the best weather and longest daylight hours, though it's busier and pricier; if you prefer fewer crowds and lower fares, May or September are lovely shoulder season alternatives.
How many destinations can I reach directly from Kirkwall Airport?
Kirkwall has 6 direct destinations, connecting you to major UK cities and beyond without needing to change planes.
Do I need a visa to travel through Kirkwall?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality—UK citizens don't need one, EU citizens can visit visa-free for short stays, and other nationalities should check the UK government website for their specific entry requirements.
What's a helpful tip about Kirkwall Airport itself?
The airport is quite small and charming, so arrive only about 1.5 hours before domestic flights since security lines are typically short; just be aware that it can close temporarily in severe weather during winter months.
Is flying to Kirkwall expensive compared to other UK airports?
Kirkwall flights tend to be pricier than major hubs like Edinburgh or Glasgow due to the remote location, but booking in advance and flying during shoulder seasons can help you snag better deals.
Plan your trip from Kirkwall
Browse the complete list of 6 destinations below to find your next flight from Kirkwall. Each route page includes distance, estimated flight time, and airline information to help you plan your trip.