The small Islay Airport, operated by Loganair, provides air service linking the island with Glasgow, essential for a community of just a few thousand inhabitants.
Gateway to Islay, known worldwide for its peaty whiskies and coastal landscapes of the Inner Hebrides.
How to get to Islay Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to ILY
Parking near Islay Airport
The parking facility adjacent to the terminal has very reasonable rates, often free of charge.
How to get to Port Ellen from ILY
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Islay Airport
Car rental companies available are limited, given the small size of the airport; book in advance, especially during high season.
Hotels near Islay Airport
Machrie
About 5 minutes by car from the airport (3 km); no direct bus, the hotel offers a transfer service on request.
Best for: for anyone wanting to play golf or indulge in the spa while staying 5 minutes from the terminal
- The closest to the airport of the island's two areas
- A historic golf course and spa on the same property
- A long walk from the village and the Port Ellen ferry
- Higher prices than the village guest houses
Recommended hotels
Port Ellen
About 3 miles (10 minutes by car or taxi) from the airport; no direct bus to the terminal.
Best for: for anyone arriving or leaving by ferry who wants to visit the Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg distilleries on foot
- Just steps from the Calmac ferry pier
- A coastal path on foot to three distilleries
- Few rooms at each property, they fill up fast during festival weekends
- B&B kitchens limited to breakfast, dinner is out
Recommended hotels
- No. 1 Charlotte Street Bed, Breakfast & Bar 2 minutes from the ferry, with views over Kilnaughton bay. View availability
- The Trout Fly Guest House A guest house in the heart of Port Ellen, with en-suite rooms and a breakfast that's very well reviewed. View availability
- Eilidh's Guest House A family-run guest house with views over Port Ellen bay, a hundred metres from the beach. View availability
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal, of modest size, handles Loganair flights to Glasgow.
One hour notice is standard practice for flights.
Map of Islay Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is Islay famous for whisky?
Yes, the island is home to numerous distilleries renowned worldwide for their peated whisky.
Q. What is the Feis Ile?
Islay's whisky and music festival, which draws many visitors and drives up demand for accommodation on the island.
Q. How many passengers did Islay Airport handle in 2025?
Over 32,000, a significant volume for an Inner Hebrides airport.
Q. Are there trains on Islay?
No, the island has no railway connections; travel is by road.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights