Eday Airport

Eday London Airport (also known simply as Eday Airport) is a small airstrip serving the island of Eday in the Orkney archipelago, off the north coast of Scotland. It's a vital lifeline for the island's small population and a fascinating entry point for travellers exploring the more remote corners of the Northern Isles. With a short flight from Kirkwall, the main airport in Orkney, and a reputation for friendly, personal service, Eday London Airport offers a glimpse into island travel at its most intimate.

About Eday London Airport

Eday London Airport sits on the eastern side of Eday, one of the larger islands in the Orkney group but still sparsely populated. The airstrip is a single short runway that handles small propeller planes operated by Loganair, the Scottish regional airline that has served Orkney's inter-island routes for decades. These flights are a crucial link for residents, connecting them to the main island of Mainland (where Kirkwall is located) for supplies, medical appointments, education and onward travel by ferry or air.

The airport's formal name includes "London" – a charming quirk that possibly harkens back to a now-extinct naming convention for small fields, but there's no direct connection to the English capital. The airport is purely local in function, with no scheduled flights to London or any other major city. Instead, its raison d'être is the daily hops between the Orkney islands.

Eday is not alone: Orkney has several similar island airports (like North Ronaldsay, Sanday, and Westray) that form an inter-island air network unique in the UK. These services are subsidised to maintain connectivity for residents, and they also attract tourists seeking to island-hop or visit Neolithic sites like the Knap of Howar or the Ring of Brodgar on nearby islands. For most visitors, flying to Eday is a way to experience a truly off-the-beaten-path destination, with quiet beaches, rolling farmland and a strong sense of community.

The airport building itself is modest: a single-storey structure with a waiting area, basic facilities and a small car park. There is no café or shop, so passengers should bring any food or drink they might need. However, the airport is well-maintained and clean, with a pleasant, unhurried atmosphere that contrasts with larger terminals.

Staff & Service

One of Eday London Airport's standout features is its friendly, helpful staff. Given the size – only a handful of flights each day – the team can offer a personal touch that bigger airports simply cannot match. Passengers report that staff are welcoming, efficient and happy to assist with luggage or provide information about the island. The check-in process is streamlined and informal, often handled at a small desk just before boarding.

Security is minimal, as you would expect on such a short domestic route within a remote region. There are no full-body scanners or complicated procedures; just a quick bag check and a walk out to the aircraft. This makes for a stress-free experience, especially for nervous flyers or families with young children.

The positive impression left by the staff is a key reason why the airport receives favourable feedback from travellers. The local knowledge they share about Eday – from where to find the best walking trails to which bed-and-breakfasts are open – adds genuine value to a visit. Whether you are a seasoned island hopper or a first-time visitor, you can expect to be looked after with courtesy and warmth.

Amenities and Accessibility

Given its size, Eday London Airport has limited amenities but covers the essentials well. The key facilities include:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park: The small car park is level and close to the terminal, making it easy for passengers with mobility issues to access the building.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet: A dedicated accessible toilet is available in the terminal, ensuring that all passengers can use the facilities comfortably.
• Toilet: A standard toilet is also provided for general use.

There is no dedicated seating area beyond a few chairs in the waiting lounge, but the space is clean and functional. The terminal is single-storey with step-free access, so it is suitable for those using wheelchairs or walking aids.

Importantly, the aircraft used on the Kirkwall–Eday route (typically a Britten-Norman Islander or a Twin Otter) are not wheelchair-accessible via their own means, but assistance can be arranged through Loganair or the airport staff to help passengers board and disembark. It is advisable to inform the airline in advance of any special assistance requirements.

There is no WiFi or charging points in the terminal, so prepare for a digital detox during your wait. However, the surrounding scenery – with views across the island to the sea – more than compensates.

Practical Information

Getting to and from the Airport

Eday London Airport is located about 2 miles (3 km) south of the island's main settlement, Backaland. There is no public transport on Eday, but taxis or pre-booked hotel transfers can be arranged. Many visitors arrive by car from the ferry terminal (the ferry from Kirkwall arrives at Backaland) or are collected by their accommodation hosts. The car park at the airport is free and usually has plenty of space.

Flight Connections

The only scheduled flights are with Loganair, connecting to Kirkwall Airport. The flight time is just 15–20 minutes, making it one of the shortest scheduled flights in the UK. Flights operate on selected days only – typically weekdays and some weekends – with reduced frequency in winter. Booking in advance is essential, especially during summer when tourist demand is higher.

What to Bring

Pack for the weather: Orkney is famous for its unpredictable wind and rain, even in summer. A waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes are recommended. Since there are no shops or cafés at the airport, bring your own snacks and water if you think you might need them.

Check-in and Boarding

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure – though check-in may be open only 20–25 minutes ahead. The process is quick: show your ticket (printed or on your phone), drop off any hold luggage, and you'll be directed to the small departure lounge. Boarding is by foot across the apron to the aircraft.

Conclusion

Eday London Airport may be small, but it is an efficiently run and welcoming gateway to one of Orkney's most serene islands. The friendly staff, straightforward facilities and the sheer novelty of a 15-minute flight over the sea make the journey an experience in itself. Whether you are a resident returning home or a traveller seeking quiet coastal walks and ancient history, this little airport will start your trip on a positive note. Its role as a vital connector for the Eday community is a reminder of how air travel can still be personal and genuinely useful – not just fast and impersonal.