The United Kingdom (UK) is a popular destination for travelers, offering a rich history, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes.
The UK has several airports that connect it to the rest of the world. Understanding the UK’s major airports is essential for a smooth journey.
In 2025, visitors who can travel to the UK without a visa must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their trip. The ETA is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization electronically linked to one’s passport.
This guide provides an overview of key airports across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, along with important information on the new ETA travel document.
Airports in England
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Located about 20 miles (32 km) west of central London, Heathrow is the UK’s busiest airport. In 2023, it handled approximately 79 million passengers, nearing its pre-pandemic peak of over 80 million.
Heathrow is a major hub for international flights, connecting to destinations worldwide. Travelers can reach central London via the Heathrow Express train in about 15 minutes.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Situated around 30 miles (48 km) south of London, Gatwick is the second-busiest airport in the UK. It offers flights to numerous destinations, primarily focusing on European routes. The Gatwick Express train is directly linked to central London and takes approximately 30 minutes.
Manchester Airport (MAN)
Located about nine miles (14 km) south of Manchester city center, this airport is a key hub in northern England. It offers flights to various international destinations and is well-connected to the city via a dedicated train station, with journeys taking under 30 minutes.
London Stansted Airport (STN)
Approximately 42 miles (68 km) northeast of London, Stansted is a hub for low-cost airlines, offering flights to numerous European destinations. The Stansted Express train connects travelers to London Liverpool Street in about 50 minutes. In 2023, Stansted served nearly 28 million passengers, a significant increase from the previous year.
Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Situated around eight miles (13 km) southeast of Birmingham city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights. It is well-connected to the city via public transport, including a direct train link.
Airports in Scotland
Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Scotland’s busiest airport is about eight miles (13 km) west of Edinburgh city center. It offers flights to various international destinations. A tram service connects the airport to the city center in approximately 35 minutes.
Glasgow Airport (GLA)
Approximately nine miles (14 km) west of Glasgow city center, this airport provides flights to numerous destinations, including Europe and North America. Bus services offer convenient connections to the city center.
Aberdeen Airport (ABZ)
Situated around seven miles (11 km) northwest of Aberdeen, this airport is a hub for flights to various destinations, particularly in Europe. It is also notable for supporting the North Sea oil industry.
Airports in Wales and Northern Ireland
Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Located about 12 miles (19 km) southwest of Cardiff city center, it is the primary airport in Wales, offering flights to several European destinations. Bus services connect the airport to the city center.
Belfast International Airport (BFS)
Approximately 18 miles (29 km) northwest of Belfast, this is Northern Ireland’s busiest airport. It offers flights to various destinations, including Europe and North America. Bus services also provide connections to Belfast city center.
Tips for smooth travel to the UK by air
Traveling to the UK by air can be an exciting experience. Still, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free trip. These practical tips can help travelers make the most of their time.
- Plan your route: Use apps or airport websites to check transport options.
- Arrive early: Allow extra time for security, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Stay connected: Download airline apps for real-time updates on flights and boarding gates.
- Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with UK passenger rights in case of delays or cancellations.
- Ensure that you have the proper travel documents. Whether it is a UK visa or the new ETA, make sure to have it along with a valid passport, identification, and other entry requirements, if applicable.
Visiting the UK by air made easy with the ETA
Planning a trip to the UK will be more manageable in 2025 with the new ETA scheme for visa-exempt travelers. The scheme aims to enhance border security while streamlining entry for low-risk visitors.
While not a visa, they must apply and pay for a pre-travel authorization before their UK trip. This lets the government vet travelers and identify potential threats before they arrive.
Starting 8 January 2025, all visa-exempt non-European UK visitors must apply for an ETA before their journey. Applications open for European nationals on 5 March 2025 for travels to the UK on and after 2 April 2025.
Applying for pre-authorization before a trip to the UK is straightforward and entirely online via the UK Government website or the UK ETA mobile app.
Applicants must provide personal details, passport information, contact information, answer security questions, and pay the £10 application fee.
Processing typically takes three days, but it can take longer. Travelers are advised to apply well in advance to avoid delays.
Once issued, the ETA is electronically linked to travelers’ passports. It is valid for two years unless the passport linked to it expires earlier. During this period, ETA holders can travel to the UK multiple times for short stays or up to six months per visit.
Visa-required travelers and those denied an ETA must apply for a UK visa to visit England. The same applies to those planning to work, study for more than six months, or live in the UK. The UK ETA scheme does not affect the UK visa application system.