Kirkwall Airport (KOI) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Kirkwall Airport quick facts

Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is the primary aviation gateway to the Orkney Islands, an archipelago of roughly 70 islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. Serving as a vital lifeline for locals and an entry point for intrepid travelers, Kirkwall Airport connects this remote and historically rich region with mainland Scotland and the outer islands. Operated by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited, the airport facilitates essential passenger traffic, vital air ambulance services, and operates as the base for the world's shortest scheduled commercial flight.

Located just 2.5 nautical miles southeast of Kirkwall town center, the airport provides a compact and stress-free travel experience. Unlike sprawling international hubs, navigating Kirkwall Airport is straightforward, allowing visitors to quickly transition from the runway to exploring Neolithic heartlands. With a single terminal handling all domestic and inter-island traffic, the airport focuses on functionality, offering a modern facility that reflects the robust character of the Orkney community.

Kirkwall Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Kirkwall Airport features a simple, single-terminal linear layout designed for maximum passenger efficiency. The terminal building is compact, placing the check-in desks, security screening area, departure lounge, and arrivals facilities under one roof and within very short walking distance of each other. Because there is only one terminal, navigating from the main entrance to your gate typically takes no more than a few minutes.

The airside departure lounge connects directly to the apron via walking gates. There are no jet bridges at Kirkwall Airport; passengers board aircraft via ground-level stairs or short ramps, walking across the tarmac—an experience that offers excellent views of the runway and the surrounding green landscapes, perfect for grabbing that final Orkney photo before departure.

Navigating Kirkwall Airport Terminals

Main Terminal Building
All airlines check in at the ground floor counters located directly inside the main entrance. Loganair dominates the departure boards, operating routes to major Scottish cities like Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, as well as inter-island services to North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Sanday, Stronsay, and Westray, plus connections to Sumburgh in Shetland.

Key features of the terminal include a recently refurbished departure lounge that offers a comfortable waiting area. While the airport does not house large luxury lounges, the seating area is bright and airy. Dining and shopping highlights are compact but cover essential needs: there is a café-bar located airside where passengers can enjoy hot meals, sandwiches, and beverages. A small retail shop offers souvenirs, local crafts, reading materials, and travel essentials. Free WiFi is available throughout the entire terminal building.

Transportation to and from Kirkwall Airport

Given the rural nature of the Orkney Islands, ground transportation options center around taxis, pre-booked buses, and private vehicles. While the infrastructure is simple, planning ahead is recommended as services are not as frequent as those found in major mainland cities.

Getting to and from Kirkwall Airport by Car

Driving from Kirkwall Airport to the town center is remarkably straightforward. The airport is situated on the A960 road, and the journey to the center of Kirkwall takes approximately 10 minutes, covering a distance of about 3.8 miles. Traffic congestion is virtually non-existent on Orkney roads compared to the UK mainland, though drivers should be mindful of slow-moving agricultural vehicles and wandering livestock on rural stretches.

Parking at Kirkwall Airport is directly adjacent to the terminal building, with a short walk taking less than a minute to reach the check-in desks. Both long-term and short-term parking options are available in the same general lot. Parking is remarkably affordable, with long-stay parking being free of charge. This is a significant cost-saving benefit for travelers heading to the mainland for business or holiday. Curbside drop-off is permitted directly outside the terminal door; however, waiting time is limited and drivers are encouraged to move to the parking bays if seeing passengers inside. A dedicated cell phone waiting lot is not formally designated, as the free parking areas serve this purpose effectively.

Getting to and from Kirkwall Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Standard ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft do not operate in Orkney. Instead, a network of reliable local private hire and taxi companies serves the airport. The designated taxi pick-up area is located immediately outside the terminal arrivals area.

Local taxi company numbers include Craigies Taxis (+44 1856 878 787), CD Taxis (+44 1856 875 000), and George's Taxis (+44 1856 873 000). It is highly advisable to pre-book your taxi, especially during the late evening or early morning, or if you arrive on a flight that coincides with ferry arrivals.

The estimated fare to Kirkwall city center is approximately $12 to $15 USD for the short ride. Payment is generally expected in cash (GBP), though some drivers may accept card payments; it is best to confirm before the journey commences.

Getting to and from Kirkwall Airport by Public Transportation

While there is no train service in Orkney, local buses connect the airport to Kirkwall town center and other parts of the Mainland island. Stagecoach operates the local bus services, with the number 4 bus route being the primary link between the airport and the town.

The bus stop is located on the main road near the airport entrance, a short 7-minute walk from the terminal building. Buses are timed to meet major flights, but schedules vary significantly between weekdays and weekends. It is highly recommended to check the latest timetable on the Stagecoach website or app before traveling.

Key Amenities at Kirkwall Airport

ATMs

There is an ATM located in the main terminal lobby, near the entrance, providing access to GBP cash. Given the limited number of machines, carrying a backup cash supply is recommended for traveling directly to the outer islands.

Lost and Found

Lost property at Kirkwall Airport is managed by the airport administration office. If you have left an item on an aircraft, you must contact Loganair directly. For items lost in the terminal, call the airport at +44 1856 872 421 ext. 210 or email [email protected].

Luggage Services

Luggage trolleys are available free of charge within the terminal. There are no luggage storage or wrapping facilities at this airport.

Pets

Pets are welcome, and Loganair carries dogs and cats in the hold. An outdoor pet relief area is located at the far end of the short-stay car park, but pets are not allowed inside the terminal unless they are assistance dogs. Always use a leash outdoors.

Showers

There are no public shower facilities available at Kirkwall Airport. Passengers requiring a shower should inquire at nearby hotels like the Ayre Hotel or The Kirkwall Hotel.

Currency Exchange

Kirkwall Airport does not have a dedicated currency exchange desk. The ATM dispenses local Pound Sterling (GBP). Visitors from outside the UK are advised to exchange currency before arriving in Orkney or use local banks in Kirkwall town center.

Smoking Area

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal. A designated outdoor smoking area is located immediately outside the departures entrance.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal is a single-story building with check-in at the front, security leading directly to the airside lounge, and arrivals exiting through a separate corridor. Natural light fills the waiting area, which offers views of the runway.

WiFi

Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the "HIAL Free WiFi" network and follow the simple registration portal. Charging stations with standard UK three-pin sockets are available in the departure lounge.

Other Amenities: Connecting passengers should note there is a baby changing facility inside the main restroom. While there is no dedicated medical center, first-aid qualified staff are always on duty. There is no chapel or prayer room on-site. An information desk is staffed during operational hours.

Airport Lounges at Kirkwall Airport

Given the short flight durations and small aircraft sizes, Kirkwall Airport does not feature traditional large-scale airline or credit card-affiliated lounges such as a Centurion Lounge or Priority Pass lounge. However, the compact departure lounge functions as the primary waiting area for all passengers.

Airline Lounges at Kirkwall Airport

There are no specific airline-branded lounges. All passengers wait in the shared main departure gate area. The space is comfortable, with modern seating, free WiFi, and a café bar serving local beers, spirits, and hot food. Loganair passengers with specific accessibility needs should contact the airline prior to travel to arrange private waiting if required.

Other Airports in the Region

Travelers looking to reach Orkney have few alternatives, as air connectivity relies heavily on Kirkwall Airport. However, there are other transport hubs and small airfields that serve niche purposes.

Stronsay Airport (SOY)
Distance to Kirkwall: Approximately 15 miles by sea and road, reachable by ferry and then car. Best for accessing Stronsay Island directly. Unique advantage: Offers a walk-on ferry connection to Kirkwall, bypassing the need for a daily flight. Recommended for island-hopping itineraries.

Wick John O'Groats Airport (WIC)
Distance to Kirkwall: 3 miles from Wick, plus a ferry crossing via John O'Groats. Used by travelers who prefer a longer drive through the Scottish Highlands before taking a short ferry ride to the islands. Not practical for direct access to Kirkwall itself.

Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ)
Distance to Kirkwall: 200 miles south, connected by a 50-minute flight via Loganair. This is the primary mainland interchange for Orkney. Best for international connections and car rental variety. If Kirkwall Airport flights are fully booked due to weather disruptions, Aberdeen acts as the main diversion point.

Kirkwall Airport Overview

Kirkwall Airport was established to provide a fixed-wing airlink for the scattered island communities. Originally a grass strip, it expanded during World War II when the British military built a hard runway. Today, the airport retains its vital civilian function, owned and operated by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited. It sits 58 feet above sea level and has two asphalt runways: the main runway 09/27 measuring 4,685 feet, and a shorter crosswind strip.

The geographic location is significant as the southern anchor of the Northern Isles air network. The airport is approximately 3.8 miles from the historic center of Kirkwall. Annual passenger traffic averages around 130,000 to 145,000, with aircraft movements reaching over 14,000 annually. The single terminal operates efficiently to handle both the fixed-wing Loganair services and the Orkney Islands Council inter-island public service obligation routes.

Kirkwall Airport Postal Code

Postal Code: KW15 1TH
City: Kirkwall
Province/State: Orkney (Scotland)
Country: United Kingdom
Mailing Address: Kirkwall Airport, Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, KW15 1TH

Duty Free and Shopping at Kirkwall Airport

Due to the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union and the airport's primary routing to domestic destinations, traditional duty-free sales for intra-UK travelers are not applicable. However, the airport features a retail shop offering value-added purchasing options for travelers heading to international connecting hubs.

For passengers connecting via Aberdeen or Edinburgh to destinations outside the UK, goods purchased at the airside shop may be eligible for tax-free shopping if exported within the correct timeframe. The main travel convenience store in the departure lounge stocks Orkney crafts, jewelry, books, snacks, and bottled spirits including world-famous Highland Park and Scapa whisky distilleries. The on-site café-bar serves Orkney-roasted coffee, shortbread, and hot light meals using local ingredients.

Shopping Tip: While the airport offers convenience, true souvenirs like handmade Orkney chairs, art, and premium single malts are often found with greater variety and at better prices in the independent shops along Albert Street and Broad Street in Kirkwall town center. Visit the Orkney Trading Post for authentic goods before heading to the airport.

Security Wait Times Kirkwall Airport

One of the great advantages of a small regional airport is the efficient security screening process. Passengers are unlikely to face the long queues common at major international airports. Security personnel are friendly and professional, and the screening area is located immediately adjacent to the check-in desks.

The busiest times at security coincide with the morning departures to Aberdeen and Edinburgh, typically between 07:00 and 09:00 on weekdays. Even during peak periods, the wait rarely exceeds 25 minutes. During the afternoon and off-peak times, passengers can usually expect a wait of 5 minutes or less. There is no TSA PreCheck or CLEAR at this UK airport, but all passengers must adhere to standard UK government rules regarding liquids (containers under 100ml in a clear plastic bag) and electronics.

Kirkwall Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

The drop-off zone is situated directly outside the main terminal doors. Drivers can pull up free of charge to unload passengers and luggage. Strict enforcement applies, and vehicles must not be left unattended. If you wish to accompany a passenger inside, or if you are waiting to pick up arriving guests, you must park in the designated short-stay area, which is also free of charge for a limited time.

Arriving passengers can be met in the main arrivals area, which opens directly onto the short-stay parking lot. There is no "Kiss and Fly" designated train station. The commercial vehicle zone is integrated into the upper curb area, where official taxis line up directly outside the glass doors.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Kirkwall Airport

Loganair is the sole scheduled passenger airline at Kirkwall Airport, operating services under its own branding and on behalf of the Orkney Islands Council for inter-island routes. The airport acts as a base for these vital Public Service Obligation flights.

Popular Domestic Destinations:

• Aberdeen: 55-minute flight, key hub for offshore industry connections.
• Edinburgh: 1-hour flight, popular for culture and city breaks.
• Glasgow: 1-hour 15-minute flight, essential for medical and business links to the west of Scotland.
• Inverness: 45-minute flight, connecting the Highlands capital.

Inter-Island Routes: Flights frequently depart to Sumburgh (Shetland) and the Orkney North Isles including North Ronaldsay, Sanday, Stronsay, Westray, and Papa Westray. The flight to Papa Westray is officially the world's shortest scheduled flight, lasting just 90 seconds on a good day.

Seasonal Services: Routes to destinations such as Fair Isle may operate on a seasonal schedule, typically increasing during the summer months when tourism peaks.

Getting to and from Kirkwall Airport

The 4-mile journey between the airport and Kirkwall city center is quick and straightforward, but specific transport options should be reserved ahead of time during holidays and local festivals like the Orkney Folk Festival.

Car Rental at Kirkwall Airport

Renting a car is highly recommended for truly exploring the prehistoric monuments, rugged cliffs, and hidden beaches of Orkney. Car rental desks are located inside the terminal arrivals hall, operated by Avis, Europcar, and WR Tullock.

Popular vehicle types include compact economy cars like the Vauxhall Corsa, which start at approximately $72 USD per day, and mid-size SUVs suitable for navigating single-track roads. Because the fleet on the island is limited, advance booking is absolutely essential—especially during the summer months when demand can outstrip supply by weeks. Booking your rental car in advance ensures you have the mobility needed to reach remote spots like Skara Brae or the Brough of Birsay without relying on sparse bus schedules.

Kirkwall Airport Taxi Services

Kirkwall operates on a private hire taxi model rather than on-street hail. Taxis wait in the designated zone outside arrivals. You can also book via phone: Craigies Taxis (+44 1856 878 787) and Bob's Taxis (+44 1856 876 543). A trip to Kirkwall town center costs approximately $15 USD. Payment is typically cash in GBP.

Private Car Services

For a premium, fixed-rate transfer, hotels and tour operators can arrange private drivers. These services cater to business travelers and families with specific drop-off needs for ferry terminals like Hatston Pier. Contact the Orkney Hotel Concierge for bookings.

Bus Services

Stagecoach Bus 4 connects the airport to Kirkwall Travel Centre. Service runs roughly every hour on weekdays. The bus stop is a 7-minute walk from the terminal. Fares to town are about $5 USD.

Hotel Shuttles

Only a handful of large hotels provide courtesy shuttles, and these must be pre-arranged. The Ayre Hotel and The Shore generally rely on taxis for guest transfers. The airport's proximity makes a taxi quick and affordable.

Parking at Kirkwall Airport

Parking at the airport is user-friendly and budget-conscious. The main car park is located immediately adjacent to the terminal lobby. Long-term parking is completely free of charge, a rarity in modern air travel. There are no formal distinctions between premium short-stay and economy parking lots; all spaces share the same paved ground. The lot is secure, well-lit, and monitored by airport staff. There are currently no electric vehicle charging stations directly at the airport, though charging points are available in central Kirkwall. No advance reservation is required for parking.

Places to explore near Kirkwall Airport

Orkney is an open-air museum of history and nature, and most sites are within easy driving distance of Kirkwall Airport. Begin your journey immediately after landing.

• Kirkwall Town Center: 10-minute drive. Explore St. Magnus Cathedral, the Earl's Palace, and the harbor front lined with craft shops and pubs.
• Highland Park Distillery: 8-minute drive. The northernmost Scotch whisky distillery in the world, offering tastings just a minute south of the town center.
• Skara Brae & Skaill House: 35-minute drive. A stunning 5,000-year-old Neolithic village perched on the Bay of Skaill; arguably the most famous prehistoric site in Northern Europe.
• Ring of Brodgar & Standing Stones of Stenness: 25-minute drive. A UNESCO World Heritage Heartland featuring massive stone circles under huge skies.
• Italian Chapel: 20-minute drive. A beautiful chapel constructed by Italian prisoners of war on the small island of Lamb Holm, connected by the Churchill Barriers.
• Birsay: 40-minute drive. A tidal island accessible by causeway, perfect for seeing puffins and dramatic lighthouse views.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Kirkwall

The Orkney Islands experience a temperate maritime climate, heavily influenced by the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. A popular local saying warns that you can experience all four seasons in a single day. The weather is often windy, with the area recording some of the highest average wind speeds in the UK.

Spring (March to May): Temperatures average 6°C to 11°C (43°F to 52°F). The landscape awakens with wildflowers and seabirds return to the cliffs. Wind persists, but daylight hours stretch long into the evening.

Summer (June to August): Temperatures average 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F). The peak tourist season brings "Simmer Dim"—long days where it never truly gets dark. June is the driest month, ideal for visiting Skara Brae without rain.

Autumn (September to November): Temperatures drop to 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F). September can still be pleasant, but by October, ferry crossings often face sea swell and disruption. A quieter time for museums.

Winter (December to February): Temperatures average 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F). Very short days, with only 6-7 hours of daylight. Snow is rare but wind chill is sharp. The Aurora Borealis (Merry Dancers) is visible on clear nights.

Best Time to Visit: June and July provide the most reliable weather for flying and viewing puffins at Marwick Head.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival Time: Arrive 60 minutes before your flight. The airport doors open 90 minutes before the first departure. Check-in closes 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Flight Status: Orkney weather can cause sudden fog. Check the Loganair app and the HIAL airport website before leaving for the airport. Fog often rolls in from the sea quickly, grounding the inter-island fleet.
• Packing: Always pack a waterproof and windproof outer layer, even in July. A woolly hat is useful year-round. If island-hopping on the 8-seater Britten-Norman Islander plane, soft-sided bags fit more easily into the small luggage compartments.
• Currency: GBP is king. While most shops accept contactless card payments, some rural galleries and taxi drivers prefer cash.
• Driver's License: A valid driving license is required. The North American standard license is legally accepted without an International Driving Permit for UK visits, but renters must present their passport and a credit card at the airport counter.
• Fuel: The nearest 24-hour fuel station is the Co-op Petrol Station on Pickaquoy Road in Kirkwall (5-minute drive back toward town). Fill up before returning the car to avoid refueling charges.

About the City

Kirkwall is the vibrant capital of the Orkney Islands, a royal burgh with Norse roots tracing back to the 11th century. The name derives from the Old Norse 'Kirkjuvagr,' meaning Church Bay. With a population of around 9,300, Kirkwall blends a thriving rural port atmosphere with deep historical significance. The red sandstone St. Magnus Cathedral dominates the skyline, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture founded in 1137. The local dining scene is an unexpected joy, from fresh seafood at The Foveran Restaurant overlooking Scapa Flow to rich, modern Scottish bistro fare onboard the Helgi's pub.

Kirkwall is an excellent base for exploring the UNESCO Heart of Neolithic Orkney, the wartime remnants of the Churchill Barriers, and the rich craft trail of small island studios. Its compact, flat layout makes it a walkable town, allowing visitors to experience Viking history, top-tier distilling heritage, and world-class ancient tombs all within a few square miles.

Start Your Journey at Kirkwall Airport

Your adventure into the Northern Isles begins the moment your plane touches down at Kirkwall Airport. The roar of the engines on the single runway is quickly replaced by the sound of the Orcadian wind and the call of oystercatchers. To unlock every corner of this magical archipelago—from the Italian Chapel to the Tomb of the Eagles—a rental car is your most valuable travel companion.

Secure your vehicle now to avoid disappointment, as the limited Orkney fleet books out swiftly. Book your rental car in advance and drive directly out of the airport toward the stone circles that await. The open road meets the open sea here—plan your Kirkwall Airport arrival today and step straight into the history and wild beauty of the islands.