One union that comprises countries like England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom is a paradise for travelers coming on a holiday. With a vast history, picturesque locations, and so much more, this is a paradise that travelers have got to explore.

Interestingly, there are many airports in the United Kingdom that are renowned for their world-class services feature amongst the very best in the world. Not only this, but the UK even has airports that are relatively smaller but play a vital role as far as commuting within different destinations is concerned.

Here's more information on the different airports in the UK that travelers should be aware of.

Top 23 UK International Airports

Here's our guide to some of the topmost and busiest airports in the UK that travelers should know about.

1. Heathrow Airport, London

Heathrow Airport, London - Airport in UK

Perhaps the biggest airport in the UK, Heathrow Airport is one of the most popular airports in the world and serves the gorgeous city of London. Renowned for its top of the line facilities, the airport is, in fact, the second busiest airport in the world that welcomes millions of travelers every year. The reason? Well, considering London is one of the best places to visit in the United Kingdom, the rush of travelers coming to Heathrow isn't surprising. Originally built with six runways, the airport has only two remaining runways now considering the requirements that have come up over time.

Services & Facilities At Heathrow Airport -

  • Airport Lounges
  • Parking
  • Shops
  • Spa
  • Art Galleries
  • Food Outlets

Location - Longford TW6, United Kingdom

Airport Code - LHR

2. Gatwick Airport

Gatwick Airport - Airport in UK

Widely renowned for being the second busiest airport in the UK, Gatwick is one of those UK international airports that has gained significant prominence over the years. Nestled just 29.5 miles to the south of central London, the airport is the eighth busiest in Europe. Interestingly, the airport has a single runway which was considered to be the busiest in the world up till 2017. In fact, Gatwick served a staggering 46 million passengers in the last year. As the survey shows, Barcelona was the most popular destination for travelers from Gatwick Airport.

Services & Facilities At Gatwick Airport -

  • Airport lounges
  • Airport Hotels
  • Prayer Room
  • Shops
  • Wifi

Location - Horley, Gatwick RH6 0NP, United Kingdom

Airport Code - LGW

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3. Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport - Airport in UK

Another United Kingdom international airport that receives a wide number of visitors, the Manchester Airport was established in 1938 and served as a major travel hub other than Heathrow. A city that houses some of the finest hotels in the United Kingdom, Manchester is widely renowned as a popular travel destination and travelers coming to the UK often take time to explore the city. Hence, it is understandable why there are predictions around the Manchester Airport handling over 50 million passengers in the coming years.

Services & Facilities At Manchester Airport -

  • Smoking area
  • Multi-Faith Prayer Rooms
  • WiFi
  • Shopping Services
  • Hotels

Location - Manchester M90 1QX, United Kingdom

Airport Code - MAN

4. London Luton Airport

London Luton Airport - Airports in United Kingdom

Another popular United Kingdom International Airport that was previously called the Luton International Airport, London Luton was first established in 1938 and has featured amongst the best airports in the UK since its establishment. Interestingly, the airport is considered a favorite destination for the likes of Wizz Air, EasyJet, and Ryanair. Budget airlines flying from Eastern Europe like aficionado serve this airport. The airport has a single runway and a single terminal building.

Services & Facilities At London Luton Airport -

  • Shops
  • Parking
  • Business Facilities
  • Quiet room
  • Service animal relief area

Location - Airport Way, Luton LU2 9LY, United Kingdom

Airport Code - LTN

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5. London Stansted Airport

London Stansted Airport - Airport in United Kingdom

Considering London is one of the best holiday, adventure, or honeymoon destinations in the world, airports here are in plenty. The London Stansted Airport is located only 42 miles to the Northwest of Central London and is widely popular amongst travelers. Receiving about 25 million passengers in a year, the airport only has a single runway which is surprising considering the number of flights that arrive here.

Services & Facilities At London Stansted Airport -

  • Shopping services
  • Meeting rooms
  • WiFi
  • Information desk
  • Prayer Room

Location - Bassingbourn Rd, Stansted CM24 1QW, United Kingdom

Airport Code - STN

6. Land's End Airport

Land's End Airport
Image Credit

Another international airport that is not as bigger but certainly a popular choice amongst travelers traveling to and from St. Mary's. The Land's End Airport is set on mainland England and was established in 1935. The airport serves the Isles of Scilly and Helicopters that only connect the St. Mary's. Travelers coming here can even take tours of the surroundings which may sound unusual to many considering it's an airport.

Services & Facilities At Land's End Airport -

  • Wifi
  • Cafe
  • Toilets
  • Waiting Area
  • Parking

Location - Kelynack, St Just, Penzance TR19 7RL, United Kingdom

Airport Code - LEQ

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7. Stornoway Airport

Stornoway Airport
Image Credit

Nestled in Stornoway and an airport where only one airline operates which is Loganair, the Stornoway Airport currently serves Loganair, British Mail, and private aircraft. The airport was first opened in 1937 and has mainly served for military purposes in the past. Owned by HIAL, a firm under the control of the Scottish Government, it is one of the smallest domestic airports in the United Kingdom.

Services & Facilities At Stornoway Airport -

  • NHS patient transfer
  • Royal Mail

Location - Stornoway, Isle of Lewis HS2 0BN, United Kingdom

Airport Code - SYY

8. Alderney Airport

Alderney Airport

Another of those domestic airports in the United Kingdom that was built in 1935, Alderney Airport was the first airport in the Channel Islands and is perhaps the only airport on the island of Alderney. Offering services like Airport Fire station and hangar, the Alderney Airport is located closest to the coast of France and the South coast of England. Interestingly, even though the air traffic has gone down significantly in recent years, the airport handled about 61,317 passengers in the year 2014 alone.

Services & Facilities At Alderney Airport -

  • Hangar
  • Airport Fire Station
  • Avgas refuelling

Location - St Anne, Guernsey

Airport Code - ACI

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9. Newcastle International Airport

Newcastle International Airport

The Newcastle International airport is the 11th busiest airport in the United Kingdom that is located on the outskirts of the city. Newcastle lies in the North East England region that is connected by other major cities and states. Newcastle international serves the best connectivity to the cities of Newcastle, Wearside, and Northumberland.

After Manchester, Newcastle international makes the second busiest airport used by passengers for international travel. The airport owns a Civil Aviation Authority Public Use Aerodrome License allowing it to conduct public flight services. The airport was opened on 26 July 1935, and since then, a number of additions and renovation has been made to offer the best flight and public service. The top airlines like Air France British Airways and KLM are operating to and from Newcastle International Airport in the UK.

Services & Facilities At Newcastle Airport -

  • Cargo service
  • Duty-Free
  • WHSmith
  • Free WIFI
  • Prayer Room
  • Smoking Room
  • Restrooms
  • Restaurants and Cafe

Location - Woolsington, Newcastle NE13 8BZ

Airport Code – NCL

10. Birmingham International Airport

Birmingham International Airport

The Birmingham Airport was opened in the year 1931 as a municipal airport in the Metropolitan Borough of Solihull. It was later governed by the Birmingham Airport Authority, and by 1986, the airport became one of the specific reasons behind the economic growth of the region.

Today Birmingham Airport is one of the largest United Kingdom international airports that host connectivity to more than 400 destinations, collaborating with global airlines. The airport is equipped with two large runways measuring up to 12,000 feet in length and 150 feet in width. In 1993 the airport was renamed Birmingham International Airport and later in the year 2008, the Airport Authority Board of Directors decided to rename the airport as New Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.

Services & Facilities At Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport -

  • Custom and Security
  • Eating and Dining
  • Arrival Fast Tracks
  • Private Jet Charters
  • Airport Hotels
  • Airport Lounge
  • Car Parking

Location - Coventry Road, Birmingham B26 3QJ

Airport Code – BHX

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11. Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh Airport

In 1916 a small base was opened for military use, and later in the 1940s, the airport launched its first commercial service. The history of Edinburgh Airport dates back to the world war, and due the course of time, the airport services were enhanced, turning it into the 6th busiest international airport in the UK. Edinburgh International in Scotland is the main airport that is served by many international airlines, connecting the state to major destinations in the world. The estimated data shows that there are 33 airlines, serving more than 188 routes to and from Scotland.

International service from Edinburgh started in 1962, and the British Airports Authority soon took over ownership in 1971. Today it is the busiest airport in Scotland with a runway and one passenger terminal.

Services & Facilities At Edinburgh International Airport -

  • Lounges
  • Currency Exchange
  • Luggage
  • Prayer room
  • Car Parking
  • Security Check-in
  • Fat Track Security and Passport Control
  • Restaurants

Location - Almond Rd, Edinburgh EH12 9DN

Airport Code – EDI

12. Leeds Bradford Airport

Leeds Bradford Airport

The largest airport in Yorkshire, Leeds Bradford Airport, was opened on October 7th, 1931. Formerly known as the Leeds and Bradford Municipal Aerodrome, the airport operated the first scheduled flight in 1935. Before that, the airport was used as used for training purposes and general Aviation. Even during the second world war, this airport in the United Kingdom was used for delivering the planes for the war.

It was in 198 when the first international flight was operated from the Leeds Bradford Airport and since then, the airport serves a connecting route top destination like Düsseldorf, Belfast, and Dublin. Today the airport welcomes millions of travelers each year, arriving and departing from Yorkshire. Undergoing many renovations and renovation with the facilities and services, the Leeds Bradford has one of the busiest airports in the UK with two air bridges, a terminal, two check-in halls, a runway of 2200 m, and the capacity to hold 24 Boeing 757 aircraft.

Services & Facilities At Leeds Bradford International Airport -

  • Medical and First Aid
  • Airport WiFi
  • Payer Room
  • Smoking Room
  • Duty Free
  • Restaurants and Cafe

Location - Whitehouse Lane, Leeds LS19 7TU

Airport Code – LBA

13. Aberdeen International Airport

Aberdeen International Airport

Another UK International airport that welcomes thousands of travelers, Aberdeen International Airport is located in the Dyce suburb of Aberdeen, Scotland. Being one of the largest airports in Scotland, it recorded 3.1 million footfalls in the year 2017. The airport is 9 km from the city center, connected with cabs and other public transport.

Operated by the AGS Airports, Aberdeen is a hub for Loganair and Eastern Airways. Both scheduled and chartered flights are operated to and from Aberdeen airport, Scotland. Talking about the terminal facilities, the airport has one main passenger terminal, a small terminal used for oil charter flights, and for terminals that operated sea helicopters. There were more facilities and services added to the UK airport in 2019 like the baggage reclaim, immigration, and more.

Services & Facilities At Aberdeen International Airport -

  • Airport Parking
  • Free WIFI
  • Security Check-in
  • Baggage Enquiries
  • ATM
  • Smoking Area
  • First Aid

Location - Dyce, Aberdeen AB21 7DU

Airport Code – ABZ

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14. Liverpool John Lennon Airport

Liverpool John Lennon Airport

Opened in 1993, the Liverpool John Lennon international is the longest operational airport in the United Kingdom. Nestled towards the southeast of the city center, the airport is located adjacent to the Mersey River.

The airport hosts global airlines that are operating to and from places in Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Today the airport has a capacity to accommodate 7 million travelers in a year. While there are no travelators, the airport connects the arrival and departure gate with a short lobby to walk.

There are both chartered and scheduled flights operating from Liverpool John Lennon international to places like Budapest, Madrid, Dublin, and more.

Adding more to the facts, the airport is the first UK airport that is named after a person- John Lennon, a world-famous singer, and musician.

Services & Facilities At Liverpool John Lennon International Airport -

  • Baggage Allowance
  • Security
  • Restaurants and Café
  • Duty-Free
  • Fast Track Security
  • Parking

Location - Speke Hall Ave, Liverpool L24 1YD

Airport Code – LPL

15. Norwich Airport

Norwich Airport

While Norwich Airport is one of the smallest airports in the United Kingdom, it is the busiest airport in East Anglia. Holding a Public Use Aerodrome License, the airport operates every public flight to the neighboring destinations. There are both commercial and chartered flights operating at the airport. The airport has 1 terminal and 1841 meters long runway. Owned by the Regional & City Airports, every facility and service from security to shops has been introduced for public convenience. You can find every needed facility that makes it one of the most preferred international airports in the UK.

Serving every top airline like the KLM, BH Air, and TUI Airways, Norwich international has made it convenient for travelers to reach the city from every part of the world.

Services & Facilities At Norwich Airport -

  • Baggage Allowance
  • Fast Track Security
  • Restaurants and Café
  • Parking
  • Shops
  • Executive Lounge

Location - Speke Hall Ave, Liverpool L24 1YD

16. East Midlands Airport

East Midlands Airport

When it comes to low-fare travel, the East Midlands airport is one of the well-known international airports in the UK, operating top airlines. The airport serves connectivity to destinations like Murcia, Barcelona, Edinburgh, Algarve, and more. Every day, there are European flights, Long Haul Flights, Summer flights operating the best connectivity to the designated places.

As per the passenger traffic, the airport was listed as the 11th busiest airport in the United Kingdom.

The East Midlands airport is owned by Manchester Airport group and offers every basic amenity and facility for your easy and convenient travel.

Today the airport serves more than 90 destinations and was awarded many prestigious awards like the world's leading Eco Friendly Airport. Being the main airport in the city, there are cabs and local transport easily available to reach the East Midlands airport.

Services & Facilities At East Midlands International Airport -

  • Parking
  • Duty Free
  • Security FastTrack
  • Passport Control FastTrack
  • Airport transfer
  • Baggage Allowance

Location - Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2SA

Airport Code – EMA

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17. Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Doncaster Sheffield Airport

The Doncaster Sheffield airport was opened recently in the year 2008. Once the airport was operational under Peel Group of airports and the Vantage Airport Group in the United Kingdom but later the complete ownership came into the hand of Peel group. Earlier, Doncaster Sheffield airport was known as Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield that was originally a military airbase during 1915.

The first commercial flight was operated in year 2005 from the Doncaster Sheffield airport. With the low fare flights and affordable airlines, it sooner became a popular hub for travelers. Today the airport with a single runway is operating flights to many destinations in Europe and other neighboring countries States like Lublin, Rhodes, Melbourne, and Orlando.

Services & Facilities At Doncaster Sheffield International Airport -

  • Parking
  • Duty Free
  • Premium Lounge
  • Security FastTrack
  • Airport transfer
  • Travel Assistance
  • Baggage Allowance

Location - First Avenue Finningley, Doncaster DN9 3RH

Airport Code – DSA

18. Cardiff Airport

Cardiff Airport

While Wales is one of the best places to visit in May, the Cardiff Airport is one of its major international arrival points. Listed among the top airports in UK, the Cardiff Airport recorded a footfall of1.66 million in 2019. Owned by the government of Wales, the airport is completely used for commercial purposes. It was in 1952 when the airport operated its first civil flight to Dublin. Today in the 21st century, the airport is operating every scheduled, business, low-fare, and charter carriers flight to almost every part of Europe.

Amsterdam, Barcelona and Kos are some of the best routes from where flights to and from Wales operates.

Services & Facilities At Cardiff International Airport -

  • Parking
  • Security check
  • Lounges
  • Shops
  • Restaurants

Location - Vale Of Glamorgan, Cardiff CF62 3BD

Airport Code – CWL

19. Bristol International Airport

Bristol International Airport

Owned by the Ontario teacher's pension plan, the Bristol international airport is listed as one of the main commercial airports in the United Kingdom that is serving the cities like Somerset, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Wiltshire.

Located at a distance of 13km from the City center, the airport lies towards the southwest of Bristol city. In the year 2019, it also ranked as the 8th busiest airport in the UK handling more than 9 million travels in a year.

Unlike other UK airports, the history of Bristol international also dates back to the world war when the airport was called the Whitechurch airport. It was established by a group of businessmen in the year 1939. The Bristol international was the Maine civil airport operating then, and later in 1997, it was named Bristol international airport.

There is only one and the shortest runway in the country.

Services & Facilities At Bristol International Airport -

  • Security Check
  • Airport transfer
  • Baggage Allowance
  • Changing Place Facility
  • Information Desk
  • Departure Lounges Facility

Location - Lulsgate Bottom, Bristol BS48 3DY

Airport Code – BRS

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20. Belfast International airport

Belfast International airport

Located in the Belfast region of Northern Island, the Belfast International airport is a major arrival point for travelers visiting the Ireland island. Located at a distance of 21 km from the city, this international airport in UK can be easily reached via cabs and car rentals. The Belfast international holds a CAA Public Use Aerodrome License allowing it to operate commercial aircraft for public use. The airport serves the best airlines traveling to and from the destinations like London, Manchester, Glasgow, Orlando, and more.

Talking about the history, the airport was known as Aldergrove Airport that was chosen for the training establishment of the Royal Flying Corps during the world war. In 1983 it was named Belfast International airport, operating the largest airlines in the world. There are arrival halls for every arriving passenger at this United Kingdom international airport.

Services & Facilities At Belfast International Airport -

  • Security
  • Passport Control
  • Customer Services
  • Lounge
  • Lost Property
  • Terminal Wi-fi
  • Currency exchange

Location - 4 Ballysessy Close, Glenavy, Crumlin, Antrim, Belfast BT29 4AB

Airport Code – BFS

21. Humberside Airport

Humberside Airport

The Humberside airport is small in England, UK. Located in the south of Kingston, the airport is owned by the Eastern Group of companies. The airport was abandoned after World War II but in 1945, but later it was used as a civilian airport after 1974.

Being a small airport in England, located close to major international airports in the United Kingdom, the Humberside airport serves many airlines flying from other places in the United Kingdom. Connecting flights or charter flights from Airport, Doncaster Sheffield Airport, Leeds Bradford Airport and East Midlands Airport are easily available for international visitors.

The airport has only one terminal for domestic airlines.

Despite being a small domestic airport, there are many facilities and features introduced for a hassle-free experience. Yiu can wait at the restaurant or grab a quick bite before your departure. Located close to the M180 motorways, there is excellent accessibility for traveling to and from the airport.

Services & Facilities At Humberside Airport -

  • Security
  • Passport Control
  • Customer Services
  • Information Desk
  • Lounge
  • Lost Property
  • Terminal Wi-fi
  • Currency exchange

Location - Grimsby Road, Kirmington DN39 6YH

Airport Code – HUY

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22. Bournemouth Airport

Bournemouth airport

Bournemouth Airport, operated by Regional & City Airports, is located in the north-northeast end of Bournemouth city. The UK airport is a part of Rigby Group plc that employs more than 129 staff members to serve international guests.

It was in 1993 when the airport operated the first flight for every regular passenger. The airport has every facility and feature to serve the airlines and the guests arriving or departing from the airport. From your check-in security to luggage claim, lost and found and information desk, the management here takes care of every need.

Stepping with the development, Bournemouth Airport has a Fast-Track facility that features a quick security check and gets you fast to help in saving time while traveling. There are cafes, a waiting area, lounges, and every other service you require for an easy and relaxing journey. The airport is connected with local transports making the accessibility faster.

Services & Facilities At Bournemouth Airport -

  • Fast Track Security
  • Customer Services
  • Passport Control
  • Lost Property
  • Information Desk
  • Lounge and Cafes
  • Terminal Wi-fi
  • Currency exchange

Location - Parley Ln, Bournemouth BH23 6SE

Airport Code – BOH

23. Cornwall Airport Newquay

Cornwall Airport Newquay
Image Credit

Cornwall airport in England is one of the main UK commercial airports for travelers. Being one of the busiest airports, it was recorded to handle more than 461,300 passengers in the year 2017.

Cornwall airport was officially licensed as a fully civilian airport in 2006 and it introduced its first flight. Slowly further development was made like cafes, lounges, and a better check-in facility. There was an expansion of terminal space to access 70,000 passengers per year. Today Cornwall has every feature to engage the travelers and assist them thoroughly through their travel. From cash machine to free Wi-Fi and waiting area, this is among the top airports in the United Kingdom.

Services & Facilities At Cornwall Airport -

  • Lost Property
  • ATM
  • Customer Services
  • Shopping area
  • Passport Control
  • Information Desk
  • Lounge and Cafes
  • Terminal Wi-fi
  • Currency exchange

Location - Newquay TR8 4RQ

Airport Code – NQY

One of the finest holiday destinations in the world, the UK not only promises the ultimate charm of a vacation but also ensures there are no dull days for travelers. In fact, some of the airports in the United Kingdom feature amongst the busiest in the world which tells a lot about the rush of travelers to this part of the world. So, if you're planning your next vacation in the UK, make sure to keep the top airports in mind and know how travelers are booking their flights to the United Kingdom to avail the best price on flight tickets.

FAQs

Q1. Which is the largest airport in the UK?

Heathrow Airport in London is the largest airport in the UK. It is one of the most popular airports in the world and serves the gorgeous city of London. Renowned for its top of the line facilities, the airport is, in fact, the second busiest airport in the world that welcomes millions of travelers every year.

Q2. How many runways does the Heathrow Airport have?

Originally built with six runways, the airport has only two remaining runways now considering the requirements that have come up over time.

Q3. What is so special about Gatwick Airport?

Widely renowned for being the second busiest airport in the UK, Gatwick is one of those UK international airports that has gained significant prominence over the years. The airport is the eighth busiest in Europe and served a staggering 46 million passengers in the last year.

Q4. Is Manchester worth visiting?

Yes, a city that houses some of the finest hotels in the United Kingdom, Manchester is widely renowned as a popular travel destination and travelers coming to the UK often take time to explore the city.

Q5. Is there an airport at Alderney?

Yes, another of those domestic airports in the United Kingdom that was built in 1935, Alderney Airport was the first airport in the Channel Islands and is perhaps the only airport on the island of Alderney.

Q6. Which airport serves flight to and from the St. Mary's island?

The Land's End Airport is certainly a popular choice amongst travelers traveling to and from St. Mary's. The airport serves the Isles of Scilly and Helicopters that only connect the St. Mary's.

Q7. Where is the London Stansted Airport located?

The London Stansted Airport is located only 42 miles to the Northwest of Central London and is widely popular amongst travelers.

Q8. Which are the popular destinations to visit from Gatwick Airport?

As the survey shows, Barcelona was the most popular destination for travelers from Gatwick Airport up till last year. travelers here.

Q9. What facilities are available at Heathrow Airport?

Here are some of the services and facilities that the Heathrow Airport offers to travelers.

  • Airport Lounges
  • Parking
  • Shops
  • Spa
  • Art Galleries
  • Food Outlets
Q10. What facilities do I get at Manchester Airport?

Travelers get a number of facilities at Manchester Airport. Some of the notable ones include -

  • Smoking area
  • Multi-Faith Prayer Rooms
  • WiFi
  • Shopping Services
  • Hotels