UK airport with world's shortest flight to get new terminal
WESTRAY Airport, which is used for the world's shortest passenger flight, is set to get an upgrade.
Plans have been submitted by the local council to create a new terminal building on one of the North Isles in Scotland that operates a record-holding 53 second flight.
Advertisement
4
The terminal in Westray is set to be improved and have more parking spaces
Credit: Alamy
4
Loganair operates the flight that can take just 53 seconds
Credit: Alamy
The journey that holds the title of shortest scheduled passenger flight in the Guinness World Records goes between Westray and Papa Westray.
On average it takes one minute and 40 seconds, but the shortest flight on record between the two isles is 53 seconds.
From take off to landing, the flight covers a total of 1.7 miles.
The service is run by Loganair using a small, eight-seater plane.
Advertisement
For most of the year, it runs several times a week, as part of the inter-isles services.
In April 2025, the local council submitted plans for Westray Airport to get a new terminal building and increase the number of parking spaces up to 10.
Plans also include two electric vehicle charging points and one disabled access space.
The new building would have a garage for a fire service vehicle, two toilets, and a shower for fire service staff.
Advertisement
Inside there would be a kitchen, a departures waiting room, and a 'watch room.'
The old terminal building is now more than 30 years old and according to the council is no longer fit for purpose.
GREAT SCOTTISH ISLES - A tiny UK island is set to become a new tourist attraction, with exciting plans to add luxury accommodation and other features
4
Westray has a population of 600 whereas Papa Westray is home to 90 residents
Credit: Alamy
Flights between the two isles first took off in 1967 and welcomed the one millionth passenger in 2016.
Advertisement
A ferry making the same journey between the two islands takes 25 minutes - so flying is the quickest option.
Despite being under two miles apart, no bridge exists to connect the two islands.
As for the islands themselves Westray has a population of around 600 people, whereas Papa Westray is home to just 90.
The flight between the two is mainly used by teachers and students from Westray visiting archaeological sites on Papa Westray.
Advertisement
To get to Papa Westray from London, you will have to make your way to Aberdeen, and then on to Kirkwall.
From Kirkwall you'll head Westray and then of course hop on the very short flight over to Papa Westray.
Unlike other airports, for this one you need to arrive just 10 minutes before departure.
The price for flights between the two islands currently start from £8.
Advertisement
Here are the top five islands that Sun Travel believes rival Skye, and one has 14 distilleries.
Plus, Sun Travel flew on the UK's best regional airline – everyone gets free hold luggage and chocolate bar.
Plane etiquette
IF you're planning on going away any time soon, you'll need to pay attention to the following unwritten plane etiquette rules...
RECLINING SEAT: Podcast host and etiquette expert Nick Leighton explained that you shouldn't recline your seat if the passenger behind you is working on their laptop.
He said: "Nobody likes their laptop snapped in half."
Before you recline your seat, it's best to check to see what the passenger behind you is doing.
If they are on a laptop, ask before you move your seat back.
FEET: A flight attendant told The Sun: "Your boarding card tells you a number and a letter, this will be the reserved seat that you have paid for.
"Your feet, which are attached to your body, should do their best to reside within this space and stay far away from anyone else.
"If you do insist on stretching out, please make sure your feet are covered up."
CHAT: TV travel expert Samantha Brown explained that conversations from strangers aren't welcome, suggesting that others shouldn't expect a chat.
She added: "I'm not a talker. Plane time is me time."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
From health ‘cures' to very famous guests – UK's oldest spa turns 100… and you can get 50 per cent off stays
Plus, the 10 spa holidays in the UK and abroad with shell massages, huge pools and overnight stays SPA TIME From health 'cures' to very famous guests – UK's oldest spa turns 100… and you can get 50 per cent off stays Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE UK's oldest spa is celebrating it's 100th birthday - with discounts up to 50 per cent to celebrate. Champneys Tring is the UK's original spa, with the first health and wellness retreat opening in 1925. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 11 Champneys Tring is the UK's OG spa, with the first health and wellness retreat opening in 1925 Credit: Alamy 11 Now, the destination is celebrating 100 years of wellness and relaxation Credit: Alamy Now, the destination is celebrating 100 years of wellness and relaxation. Champneys Tring is set in 170 acres of Hertfordshire countryside, with a gym, thermal spas and outdoor jacuzzi. Beyond this location, Champneys also have destinations in Forest Mere, Hampshire; Henlow Grange, Bedfordshire; Leicester Springs, Leicestershire; Eastwell Manor, Kent and Mottram Hall, Cheshire. And throughout the years and Champneys' destinations, the spas have seen a wealth of celebs including Naomi Campbell, Barbara Streisand and Brad Pitt. Princess Diana even stayed at one of the resorts but staff remained discreet about the details of her visit. Also over the past 100 years, what Brits want from a spa has changed too. Here's a look back on Champneys' history. 1940s Back in the early 1940s, Britain was gripped by war. Yet Champneys remained a "sanctuary of stillness, serenity and restoration". Despite the decade being defined by urgency and uncertainty, Champneys remained open for those in need of respite. Inside the English spa hidden in the countryside with a serene private outdoor pool away from everyone This even included notable guests like Clementine Churchill - the wife of Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Clementine Churchill wasn't just a political spouse throughout the war, she also was a hostess to diplomats, balancing her personal life with public duties. During 1941, Clementine's workload increased, with many people visiting her as the wife of the Prime Minister. She then decided to go for a short rest cure to Champneys, near Tring in Buckinghamshire. 11 Champneys Tring is the UK's OG spa, with the first health and wellness retreat opening in 1925 1950s In the 1950s, hydrotherapy was then introduced to the Champneys experience. This included sitz baths, plunge baths, shower baths, spray baths, foot baths and spinal applications. Many of the treatments offered at the spas used the power of water to stimulate circulation and promote detoxification - which is still offered at the resorts today. In the same decade, body masking was introduced. This is where a thick paste or cream made from natural ingredients - such as clay, seaweed, mud or herbal extracts - would be applied to the skin in attempt to detoxify the body, improve circulation and soften the skin. Once applied, the body would often be wrapped in warm towels or blankets to encourage sweating and absorption of the beneficial elements. How to save up to 50 per cent on a Champneys stay Champneys is currently offer up to 50 per cent off stays if you stay for a three-night break. Included in the stay is unlimited spa access and meals. One night starts from £142.50, while three nights starts from £352.50 when the discounts are applied. 11 Body masking was introduced in the 1950s and involves applying a thick paste or cream to the skin in attempt to detoxify the body 11 Hydrotherapy was also introduced in the 1950s 11 In the 60s, guests at the spa resort requested tennis courts and to this day, it is one of the most popular activities at the spa 1960s Later in the 1960s - thanks to the 'Open Era' of Wimbledon - tennis in the UK became more popular. Guests at the spa resort requested tennis courts and to this day, it is one of the most popular activities at the spa. 1970s A decade later in the 1970s, the fun and social activity of aqua aerobics was introduced. Interest had flown in low-impact, accessible forms of exercise that suited a wide range of ages and fitness levels. The spa also led the industry in embracing holistic therapies and infused aromatherapy and reflexology into spa treatments. Champneys claims this set a new industry standard of wellbeing treatments. 11 Aqua aerobics was introduced to Champneys in the 70s as a fun, social activity 1980s In the 80s, the beauty, fitness and wellbeing industry in the UK experienced a major cultural shift. Mind and body wellness had entered the mainstream. Influenced by American fitness icons like Jane Fonda, aerobic workouts became a household trend. Running also surged in popularity as a simple, empowering way to boost both physical and mental health. According to Champneys website, it was in the late 70s and early 80s that they began to introduce yoga and meditation. "By weaving Eastern philosophies into our spa experience, Champneys helped bring mind-body wellness into the British mainstream - long before it was a trend," its website states. 11 In the 80s, the beauty, fitness and wellbeing industry in the UK experienced a major cultural shift 11 Running also surged in popularity as a simple, empowering way to boost both physical and mental health 1990s Then in the 90s, Champneys introduced the wellness bootcamps. The bootcamps have a holistic approach and have always included time for restorations with full access to spa facilities and treatments too. 2000s The 2000s brought cutting-edge anti-ageing skincare and advanced facial treatments to Champneys, with "the latest in medical-grade technology". Then in 2011, The Champneys Collection launched in partnership with Boots, bringing spa experiences into people's homes across the country and internationally. 11 Then in the 90s, Champneys introduced the wellness bootcamps Now Today, Chamneys has four spa resorts, two spa hotels and two city spas. Eastwell Manor, for example, is the ideal hotel break in the countryside with access to health and beauty treatments, indoor and outdoor heat swimming pools, a gym, sauna, nature trains and brasserie. Then at Springs Resort in Leicestershire - the UK's first purpose-built health spa - guests are free to explore a gym, HIIT studio, dance studio, spin studio as well as other classic spa facilities. The spas still use and have many of the different elements that Champneys have collated over the years. Currently, Champneys is also running their Serene Summer Sale with up to 50 per cent off stays. Guests can get 20 per cent spa days, 20 per cent off one-night breaks, 40 per cent off two-night breaks and 50 per cent off three-night breaks if they book a break before July 15, for now until September 30. And on July 19 and 20, Champneys will be hosting The Wellness Fest with yoga and meditation classes, breathwork sessions, zumba, pilates, mini treatments, guided walks and talks. There are plenty of cheap spa breaks to book this year – with UK stays from £17pp & holidays abroad from £261pp. Plus, the 10 spa holidays in the UK and abroad with shell massages, huge pools and overnight stays.
Scottish Sun
5 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
The secret side to Portugal crowned one of the best places in Europe to visit this year
Plus, the European city that has 'rollercoaster' trams HIDDEN GEM The secret side to Portugal crowned one of the best places in Europe to visit this year Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THERE are lots of famous spots in Portugal like the Algarve and Porto. But have you heard of Arrábida? Just 35 minutes south of Lisbon, Arrábida is a beautiful natural park with huge mountains and incredible blue waters that visitors describe as "paradise." Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Arrábida has lots of beaches perfect for swimming and snorkelling Credit: Alamy 5 There are lots of hidden coves to explore around the shoreline too Credit: Alamy Located next to the sea, between Setúbal and the lively fishing town of Sesimbra, Arrábida Natural Park has incomparable natural beauty. It was described by Condé Nast Traveler as 'one of the best places in Europe to visit in 2025'. It went on to describe the Portuguese destination as 'a hidden gem', with 'nature at its core in its purest state', castles and 'excellent wines'. The Arrábida comprises miles of land and sea on the southern coast, close to Lisbon. It has white sandy coves and huge mountains, but it isn't as popular as other destinations in Portugal. But with rave reviews, it should be. One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: "You will be amazed! It's just wonderful! "It feels like we're on the other side of the world UNAVOIDABLE. You must visit the park and the heavenly beaches." Another added: "Breathtaking landscape! The colour of the sea ... a mixture of green and blue. "The waters are transparent. You can sea fish around you! A paradise on land!" Arrábida has crystal-clear waters and stunning coastline, so it's no surprise that it'a great place for water sports, particularly snorkelling and kayaking. Explore Algarve with The Sun's Best of Beaches 5 Swimming, snorkelling and coasteering is popular in Arrábida Credit: Alamy 5 The Natural Park also has mountains and vineyards Credit: Alamy On the water are often boat tours and coasteering, which involves exploring the coastline by swimming, climbing, and jumping from cliffs. There are also dolphin-watching tours because there are often sightings of Bottlenose and Common Dolphins. Sesimbra is in the foothills of Arrábida and is often known as a good place to stay for anyone wanting to visit the park. It has hotels, bars and clubs as well as cafes scattered along the beachfront. Getting to Arrábida only takes four hours after leaving the UK, including a 50-minute drive south from Lisbon airport. Plus, the European city that feels like an outdoor art gallery with 'rollercoaster' trams and riverfront rooftop bars. And the city break with £1.66 beers that's hours from the UK.
Scottish Sun
8 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
‘Wonderfully unspoilt' seaside town in Devon is one of the UK's best hidden spots
Plus, the hidden English beach that's the 'most beautiful place in the world' to close until next year SAND-SATIONAL 'Wonderfully unspoilt' seaside town in Devon is one of the UK's best hidden spots Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) NESTLED in Devon is one of the UK's best hidden gems that is home to a Jurassic coastline, quaint seaside villages and pretty beaches. Budleigh Salterton is a "wonderfully unspoilt" seaside town in Devon, according to Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Budleigh Salterton is a "wonderfully unspoilt" seaside town in Devon Credit: Alamy 4 It features a long-stretching clean beach and is about 20-minutes from Sidmouth Credit: Alamy Located just 20-minutes from Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton is home to a huge beach and has fewer crowds than its popular neighbour. Just 7,000 people live in the seaside town. One person said in a Tripadvisor review: "Great scenery, friendly community, always clean, and great for the family." Another added that it is "wonderfully unspoilt". Alex Gwillim, a local expert from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays said: "People often miss out on a visit to Budleigh Salterton because it is nestled between more popular destinations like Exmouth and Sidmouth which draw big crowds on a nice day. "Budleigh Salterton is a real hidden gem, boasting a beautiful pebble beach that stretches over two miles, the iconic red sandstone cliffs of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic coast, and a small town filled with unique local businesses to explore." There are plenty of things to do in the town including watersports such as paddle-boarding and kayaking, and there is a number of beach walks with local tea rooms and cafes. And as usual with quaint seaside towns - there is a great range of independent shops too. "Budleigh Salterton is also the perfect spot for nature lovers. Head along the beach towards the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, a popular spot for bird watching," added Alex. "There are also easy walking trails with fantastic views of the Triassic sandstone cliffs and their fascinating geology." The perfect Haven holiday park for a kid-friendly break - with direct beach access, indoor waterpark and neighbouring seaside theme park In fact, the whole region is bursting with wildlife including beavers - which were once extinct but thanks to a reintroduction programme, they are now thriving around the town. As for places to stay, there are also a good amount of options. "[Because the town isn't too big, everything is easily accessible, and the beach is right on your doorstep," she continued. What makes the destination even better is that Budleigh Salterton's beach is one of the top 10 beaches in the South West, according to The Times and Sunday Times. The waters have been rated as 'excellent' in the Bathing Water Classifications 2024 - so it is a great spot if you want to take a dip. 4 There are plenty of things to do in the town including water sports such as paddle-boarding and kayaking or beach walks with local tea rooms and cafes Credit: Alamy And if you are worried about the beach being busy - it stretches 2.5miles long, so you are bound to find a spot. If you happen to be in the town during March or September, you can also attend the Budleigh Salterton Literature Festival which is one of the UK's best loved literary events, according to Visit Devon. The town also has an interesting history with connections to Sir Walter Raleigh - who was born nearby - and the region's salt-panning industry contributing the name 'Salterton'. Devon is also home to a Victorian English seaside town with no arcades or loud rides that has one of the UK's best beaches and it is loved by celebs. Plus, the hidden English beach that's the 'most beautiful place in the world' to close until next year.
