Aberdeen Airport

Tue, 22 Nov 2005 11:28:37 +0100

History - Aberdeen Airport is one of Scotland's major air hubs and is also the world's largest commercial heliport, connecting the North Sea Oil Fields with the mainland. Aberdeen airport, situated seven miles northwest of the city centre, is one of the principle gateways to Scotland, with links to the Northern Isles, Scandinavia and most major cities in the British Isles. Aberdeen is the largest oil-related centre in Europe and the airport is the worlds largest commercial heliport, with more than 37,000 rotary wing movements serving around 468,000 passengers each year. In total, there are around 2.5 million passengers using Aberdeen Airport. The airport is the world's largest commercial heliport. The majority of the through- traffic consists of helicopter flights to and from the North Sea oil rigs. Aberdeen airport came into being in 1931 when a piece of land in Dyce, near Aberdeen, was acquired with the intention of being used as a public aerodrome. It was initially used for shuttles between the Scottish northern isles and London. World War Two had a significant impact on the role of the airport, as it became primarily used as a military base. After the war, the principal purpose of the airport returned to that of civil aviation, with the airport joining the British Airports Authority in 1947. In 1967, the airport's first oil-related helicopter movements took place. In 1987 Aberdeen airport was privatised as it became part of BAA plc. To this day, Aberdeen airport is the world's busiest heliport, with over 35,000 rotary wing movements every year. Located 11km northwest of Aberdeen on the east coast of Scotland and Shetland Islands.

Introduction: There is a left luggage facility, baby change room, located in the terminal building, near the information desk. Arrivals and Check-in both situated on the ground floor. Ticket sales & collection are directly opposite check-in desks. Baggage reclaim is next to the arrivals hall on the right of the building. . Wireless Internet is available in the Departures lounge. Game Zone Entertainment Area - an arcade area with video games. Car hire is available from the airport. There is also a petrol station in the airport grounds.

Food: Cafes and restaurants are open every day - the pub opens with drinks & pub food. After security a licenced bar serves alcoholic and soft drinks Sandwiches and pastries and snacks.

Shops: Duty free goods available to international (outside the EU) passengers after security including Books Plus, Christian Scott (knitwear, Scottish gifts), The Whisky Shop, Box of Delights (confectionary) and a good selection of airside duty-free outlets.

Currency Exchange: Operated by Travelex opposite the information desk, before security - cash dispensers throughout the building accpeting major bank and credit cards - a bureau de change selling holiday and travel insurance is also available.

Disabled Facilities: Hearing (T symbol) induction loops are located around the building supplemented with annoucements. Black and yellow signs assist particlaly sighted people; Guide dogs are allowed. Reserved seating is located near the departures entrance. Limited number of disabled parking spaces in the short-stay car park, (for badge holders use). Reserved seating area. Unisex, wheelchair disabled toilets available in the terminal.

Getting There and Local Travel Connections

Road: Take the A96 road towards Inverness, the airport is signposted. The airport is situated on the A96 Aberdeen-to-Inverness road, airport being signposted from the main road

Train: Dyce train station is located next to the airport - trains run frequently from Aberdeen to Dyce, taking 10 minutes, then take a taxi to the airport.

Taxi: Available from the terminal forecourt, operated by Rainbow Airport Taxis - central reservation office is opposite the main terminal building, (all are metered) . A meet-and-greet service and executive cars are also available.

Bus or Coach: Bus 27 runs on weekdays from Guild Street in the Aberdeen to the Airport - National Express start coach journeys from the center to locations across the UK - Al other bus' run from Aberdeen city centre Bus Station.

Local Tourist Attractions Near to Aberdeen Dyce Airport

This region of Scotland is blessed with outstanding scenery - the magnificent Grampian Mountains dominate the skyline to the West, whilst miles of unspoiled and often spectacular coastline frame the area in the east. Discover magnificent castles and gardens, wildlife galore, museums, distilleries, art galleries and championship golf courses... with bustling shopping centres, a wide variety of entertainment and leisure facilities, and a vibrant arts scene. Aberdeen is a major retail, leisure and cultural centre. .... Malt Whisky Trail - The world's only whisky trail. Take this tour of Scottish Whisky distilleries, learning about the distillation process and sampling the finished products. Balmoral Castle - One of Scotland's most famous castles, and one of the Queen's Scottish homes. Cairngorms National Park - This scenic park in the Grampians is an ideal visit for those wishing to get away from it all. Gordon Highlanders Museum - The Gordon Highlanders' museum contains information and artefacts relating to this famous regiment of the British Army. There are interactive computer displays and opportunities for hands on experiences of the uniforms and other items. St Machar's Cathedral - St Machar's is Aberdeen's beautiful 1500 year old cathedral. There are still regular church services here, and regular choir meetings.

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Aberdeen Airport Guide

Aberdeen Airport