Top 10 Airports for Private Jets in the United Kingdom

Farnborough Airport

Farnborough Airport is located to the southwest of London, and is designed exclusively for business aviation. The airport is known for its luxurious lounges, commitment to guests’ privacy and highly personalized service. Passengers can drive directly to the tarmac or spend time enjoying complimentary refreshments in the comfortable lounges. Guests travelling on to London who would like to avoid traffic can take a helicopter directly to London Battersea Heliport.

• Year opened: 1908
• Distance from central London: 35 miles
• Land area: 310 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 0
• Number of FBOs: 1

London Biggin Hill Airport

London Biggin Hill Airport is best known for its famous Festival of Flight air show, which takes place each August. During the rest of the year, the airport is a favorite with private jet passengers thanks to its quiet location, luxurious facilities and excellent service. Biggin Hill is a short 16 miles from London, but passengers can avoid the traffic by booking a helicopter transfer to London Battersea Heliport, cutting the travel time down to just ten minutes.

• Year opened: 1917
• Distance from central London: 16 miles
• Land area: 195 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 0
• Number of FBOs: 2

Exeter Airport

Exeter Airport can be found just four miles from downtown Exeter, and is ideally located for passengers travelling to Exeter University or into the beautiful countryside of England’s southwest. Private jets are serviced out of the well-equipped Exeter Corporate Aviation, which offers a VIP lounge with Wi-Fi, a bar and catering.

• Year opened: 1937
• Distance from downtown Exeter: 4 miles
• Land area: 143 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 16
• Number of FBOs: 1

London Oxford Airport

London Oxford Airport – located conveniently between London and the Midlands – is a short 20-minute drive to Oxford. While the airport is farther away from central London than some of the other options, the nearby M40 motorway is considered to be the least congested and often fastest route into London. The Oxford jet FBO features a private lounge with a bar, cafe and restaurant just steps away.

• Year opened: 1935
• Distance from central London: 60 miles
• Land area: 151 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 1
• Number of FBOs: 1

Gatwick Airport

Gatwick Airport began in 1930 as the Surrey Aero Club, a small club for flying enthusiasts. Now, Gatwick has grown to be the second largest airport in the UK, behind London Heathrow. The airport is best suited for private jet passengers connecting to an international flight, as there are many international departures per day. Private flights are serviced out of the sleek Signature FBO, which offers a VIP lounge, gourmet coffee and 24-hour customs clearance.

• Year opened: 1958
• Distance from central London: 25 miles
• Land area: 680 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 165
• Number of FBOs: 1

London Luton Airport

London Luton Airport, the fifth largest airport in the UK, is most conveniently located for travellers heading into north London. While the airport is a hub for low-cost airlines, the facilities for private jet passengers are among the best in the city. Signature’s Luton FBO, in particular, has been consistently voted the best European FBO by Professional Pilot magazine for its exceptional service and amenities.

• Year opened: 1938
• Distance from central London: 35 miles
• Land area: 245 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 107
• Number of FBOs: 3

Inverness Airport

Inverness Airport is the gateway to the Scottish Highlands and islands, home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the UK. Located just eight miles from the city of Inverness, the airport is a convenient hub for commercial and private jet passengers alike. Private charter flights are serviced out of Whiskey Bravo Air and Signature, both of which offer a private lounge with Wi-Fi and rental car facilities.

• Year opened: 1947
• Distance from downtown Inverness: 8 miles
• Land area: 250 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 10
• Number of FBOs: 2

Blackpool Airport

Blackpool Airport is set on the Fylde Coast and was one of the first aviation sites in the UK, with a history that dates back to 1909. Blackpool Airport is the gateway to the attractions of the Lake District, including the Lake District National Park, which offers a multitude of outdoor activities. Private flights are serviced from two FBOs, Hangar 3 and J-Max Air, which offer VIP lounges and direct apron access.

• Year opened: 1909
• Distance from downtown Blackpool: 3 miles
• Land area: 161 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 2
• Number of FBOs: 2

London RAF Northolt Airport

London RAF Northolt Airport is a favorite of the Queen, but serves lucky civilians as well. Time slots are limited per day, so access comes at a premium. The service may be worth the price tag, however, thanks to the short 20-minute drive to Mayfair, the luxurious terminal with a chic lounge, high security and direct apron access. Onsite meteorologists work to ensure that travellers take the best route possible, saving you time in the sky.

• Year opened: 1915
• Distance from central London: 13 miles
• Land area: 181 hectares
• Commercial destinations: 0
• Number of FBOs: 1

Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh Airport first came to life in 1916 as the Turnhouse Aerodrome, a major British air base in World War I. Now, the airport has been named the fastest growing airport in the UK. Edinburgh is the gateway to the famous Kingdom of Fife, the Central Belt and the beautiful Scottish Borders. Private flights are serviced out of a Signature FBO, which offers gourmet coffee and a rental car facility.

• Year opened: 1916
• Distance from downtown Edinburgh: 8 miles
• Land area: 375
• Commercial destinations: 88
• Number of FBOs: 1