Blackpool Airport Travel Guide 2026

Key Highlights

Here are the main points from our Blackpool Airport guide:

• See the airport’s long history, from being RAF Squires Gate up till what it is now.

• Get to know about general aviation at the airport. This includes flying schools and private charters.

• Find out which airlines fly from the airport and where in the UK and abroad they go.

• Look at the details for passengers, like check-in, security, and the lounges people can use.

• Plan your travel with facts about public transport and car parking at the airport.

• Get ready for your sizzling summer getaway from one of the most welcoming UK airports in the United Kingdom.

This airport plays a big part in aviation and general aviation. It is well-known in Blackpool and in the UK.

Introduction

Welcome to your go-to travel guide for Blackpool Airport. This airport sits on the lovely Fylde coast in the United Kingdom. It is the main way for people to get to Blackpool and the rest of the North West.

You could be here for work, flying because you love aviation, or getting ready for your next holiday. No matter the reason, this guide gives you the facts you need. You will find out about the airport’s history, the airlines you can use, and where you can fly from here. There is also help on the passenger services, and good tips on how to get to and from the airport.

Get set to find out what this easy-going and warm airport has to offer for all visitors.

History of Blackpool Airport

Blackpool Airport has been part of England’s story with flying for a long time. It all started in 1909 when Squires Gate held the first public flying show in the UK. In those early years, the spot was a racecourse and later, a hospital during the war, before it became a place important to UK aviation services.

The airport’s growth shows how civil aviation and the way people travel in Lancashire have changed over the years. Different people have owned the airport, and lots of new things have been added since it began. Each change has helped shape what Blackpool Airport is today. Here’s a quick look at some big moments in its past.

Early Beginnings and RAF Squires Gate

The story of Blackpool Airport began in October 1909. At that time, Squires Gate held the UK’s first public Flying Meeting. After this, the site was used as a racecourse and as a military hospital during World War I. In the early 1930s, planes started flying out of the airfield again. Small airlines linked Blackpool with places like the Isle of Man and Manchester.

In World War II, the Air Ministry took over the land. The airport became RAF Squires Gate. They made the grounds better and added three runways to help the war effort. Many RAF squadrons were set up here. They were very important in the war. The RAF also set up a large training group because there was lots of room for people to stay in Blackpool.

Vickers-Armstrongs also built a shadow factory on the airfield. The factory made thousands of Wellington bombers. All of this made Blackpool Airport a key part of the UK’s aviation story, before the civil aviation authority started looking after such airports.

Milestones in Airport Development

After the war ended, scheduled flights began again in 1946. The airfield was then managed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in 1949, and it became known as Blackpool Airport. For a long time, Blackpool Borough Council owned the airport. In the 21st century, the airport grew a lot. Budget airlines like Jet2 and Ryanair started flying from there, and the number of people using the airport went up to over 550,000 in 2007.

There were a few changes in who owned the airport. In 2004, the council sold it to a private group. Then, in 2008, Balfour Beatty bought 95% of it. In October 2014, money troubles forced the airport to close for a short time. This was a big turning point for UK airports and showed the problems smaller airports can face.

Luckily, the airport did not stay closed for long. Blackpool Airport Limited was started, and within a few months, flights began again. These flights were for general aviation and business needs. This helped keep the runway in England busy and open for use. The story of Blackpool Airport shows how important civil aviation still is for Blackpool and the UK.

Recent Infrastructure and Service Expansions

Since it opened again, Blackpool Airport has worked hard to be a thriving hub for both business planes and general aviation. A big step was taken when the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone was started in 2015 right on the airport site. This plan is set to bring about good growth for the area but does not get in the way of the aviation that is already going on.

The old passenger terminal at Blackpool could hold up to two million people, but it came down in 2016. Its place was taken by a new Energy College. For the people still using the airport, a smaller building was made for passenger services. This includes check-ins, a lounge, and a way through security. These changes show Blackpool’s goal to focus on its new role and do more for general aviation.

The airport has spent money on improving its runways and buildings. It has better fire cover now, so more types of planes can use Blackpool. Because of these actions, there are more trips from business jets, general aviation, and the military. This has helped Blackpool become a real centre for aviation in the area.

Airlines and Destinations

Blackpool Airport is now used for many types of aviation work. It does not have big holiday flights anymore. But it is still an important place for travel. The main company for regular passenger flights is Citywing. This airline helps people get to nearby places.

The airport is also home to helicopter services for offshore jobs. There are many general aviation companies in the area. We will go through the airlines and where they fly. This covers regular flights, charter trips, and flying schools found at Blackpool.

Scheduled Passenger Flights and Charters

Yes, Blackpool Airport is open for flights with passengers. There are not as many flights as there used to be in past years. Citywing has taken over some well-liked flights, such as daily flights to the Isle of Man and Belfast. They offer friendly low fares, so people can fly back and forth at a good price. This means both local people and visitors get a solid link to these important places.

If you need more flexible travel, Hangar 3 is based at Blackpool Airport. Hangar 3 is good at private aircraft charters, and offers use of more than 600 private aircraft all over the world. They can help you if you want to travel on your own or with bigger groups. This gives people a fantastic selection of cheap flights especially if you want to travel with others. You can also pick your own time and fly on different dates.

Current flights and charter choices are:

• Citywing: Flies to the Isle of Man and offers ways to get to Belfast.

• Hangar 3: Has private charter flights around the world for work or holidays.

• NHV Helicopters: Runs flights to offshore areas for gas and oil jobs.

General Aviation and Flying Schools

Blackpool Airport is a busy spot for general aviation. There are many companies there. They offer many services for private pilots and for those who love flying. If you want to learn to fly, hire a plane, or need work done on an aircraft, the airport has the right place for you. The airfield gives good aircraft handling and hangar space for different people who run planes.

If you want to be a pilot, the airport has flying schools that give lessons and instrument training. High-G Flight Training is one company that has these services. This makes Blackpool a good place for you to begin learning to fly or to get new skills. These flying schools sometimes have flying experience days. They let you see what it is like to be in the cockpit.

The airport does not hold large airshows. But there is always something to watch thanks to its lively general aviation scene. You can see business jets, helicopters, and planes for training here. The tarmac is always busy and exciting for people who like aviation.

Key International and UK Destinations Served

While Blackpool Airport’s scheduled passenger services are more focused today, it historically connected the UK with many popular European destinations. In its peak year of 2014, the airport served numerous routes to Spain and other holiday hotspots. Today, the focus is on providing vital UK connections, particularly to the Isle of Man and Belfast International.

For live flight information, it is best to check directly with the operating airline, such as Citywing for passenger flights, or with the specific charter company you are flying with. As the airport primarily serves general and business aviation, a public live departures board is not maintained in the same way as at larger UK airports like Manchester or London.

The table below shows the most popular routes from the airport during its last full year of large-scale commercial operations in 2014.

Rank	Airport Destination	Passengers in 2014
1	Alicante, Spain	35,652
2	Palma, Spain	27,717
3	Faro, Portugal	27,161
4	Málaga, Spain	21,708
5	Tenerife South	20,741
6	Isle of Man	14,890
7	Dublin, Ireland	14,624

Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services

The passenger building at Blackpool Airport is smaller now, but it gives a good and easy visit. You will get a welcoming service as soon as you get there. The terminal set-up helps you move through check-in, security, and boarding without trouble for both regular and private flights.

People can use things they need like a reception lounge, check-in desk, and security checks. There is also an executive lounge if you want more comfort. In the next parts, we will talk about check-in, food and lounge choices, and help for people with special needs at Blackpool.

Check-In, Security, and Departures

The check-in process at Blackpool Airport is simple and quick. There are fewer people than at big airports, so you can move through it without any stress. There is a check-in desk just for you in the passenger area. Staff will help with your baggage and give you your boarding pass. Before you travel, make sure you check your airline’s rules for hand luggage and hold baggage.

After you check in, you go through security. The staff here work fast so you will have lots of time in the departure lounge to relax before your flight. The airport is not big, so you do not need to walk far or find your way down long, confusing hallways. This is a big help for many people.

The departure lounge is a good place to wait for your flight. There are enough seats and it is easy to find your way. Blackpool Airport is also known for their great flight times and easy steps, so your trip will start off calm, without the long lines and stress you get at bigger airports.

Lounges, Shops, and Food Options

For people who want something more before they fly, Blackpool Airport has an executive lounge. You can use Hangar 3 to get a private lounge. This works well for those travelling for work or anyone who just wants a quiet spot to sit or get things done before leaving. The executive lounge gives you a better time than what you find at most UK airports.

Right now, the passenger terminal at Blackpool is smaller and made just for people flying. There are not loads of big shops or food spots like you get at large airports in the UK. The airport wants to make sure you get a quick and easy service. Because of that, you should get what you need before you get here.

Key facilities include:

• Executive Lounge: You can use this private area if you are flying on a private or charter flight by Hangar 3.

• Reception Lounge: This is a calm waiting space for every traveller.

• Vending Machines: You may get simple snacks and drinks here.

Accessibility Services and Travel Support

Blackpool Airport wants every passenger to have a good trip. This is important for people with reduced mobility or those who need special help. The airport staff give a welcoming service and are happy to go the extra mile to help you.

If you need travel help, it is good to tell your airline when you do your booking. You should do this at least 48 hours before you fly. This way, the airline and the staff at Blackpool can get ready for your arrival. They can help with check-in and boarding. The airport is small, so it is easier to get around than at big airports.

The staff can help you with a wheelchair or guide you through security. Their welcoming service and focus on your needs can help make your time at Blackpool as smooth and easy as possible. The staff are ready to go the extra mile to help all travellers.

Getting to and from Blackpool Airport

Blackpool Airport is a main gateway to the Fylde Coast and the North West. You can get there easily, whether you use public transport or your own car. Its handy spot makes it a good choice for people who do not want to travel from the bigger UK airports. It is great for quick city flights, or if you want to start your trip in Lancashire.

You can choose the way you like to get there. You might want to drive and park your car, or get to the airport by using buses, trains, trams, or taxis. Getting in and out is easy. Let’s look at the options for these ways to travel, so you can plan your journey well.

Public Transport Connections (Bus, Rail, Tram)

Getting to Blackpool Airport by public transport is easy. You have a few choices, so you can pick the one that works best for you. Local buses run on Squires Gate Lane and stop close to the airport gates. These buses connect the airport with Blackpool town centre and places like Lytham St Annes.

If you are taking the train, Squires Gate railway station is just south of the airport. You can walk to the airport from there. It sits on the Blackpool South line, which goes to Preston and other places. This makes getting the train a good choice for people who start their trip from further away.

You can also use the well-known Blackpool tramway. It moves up and down the seafront, giving you a nice view if you want a different way to get to the airport.

• Bus: Services use Squires Gate Lane and stop close by.

• Rail: The Squires Gate station is an easy walk from the airport.

• Tram: There is a tramway on the seafront, which is another good way to travel.

Car Parking, Taxis, and Drop-Off Zones

If you plan to drive to Blackpool Airport, the place is easy to get to. You can reach it by using the A5230 road. There is car parking at the airport, so you will have a simple option if you want to come by car. The airport is well known for general aviation and private flights, and this means the parking at Blackpool may not be the same as bigger airports. It is a good idea to look up any parking booking needs before you get there.

There is a drop-off spot at the airport. This is made for fast, easy stops so people can get out, take their bags, and get ready to travel without walking for long from the car.

You can use the local taxi firms if you do not want to drive. These offer service to and from Blackpool Airport. The taxis can take you right to your house, your hotel, or for your next part of the trip. You can book your taxi before you get to the airport. Many are also ready for you after your flight for a simple ride. This gives you an easy and good choice for travel.

Conclusion

To sum up, Blackpool Airport is a great gateway to the fun places in the area. It is a good choice for anyone who wants to travel. The airport has a long history, many new updates, and lots of services to help make your trip easy. There are flights to many places, and you can get to and from the airport without any trouble. This is where your trip can start. It does not matter if you are going on a family holiday or a work trip. Blackpool Airport has what you need. If you want to see what Blackpool can give you, go ahead and book your tickets now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns and manages Blackpool Airport?

Blackpool Airport belongs to Blackpool Council and is run by Blackpool Airport Operations Ltd. This company was made to look after the airport when it opened again in 2014. The airport holds a Civil Aviation Authority licence. This means it follows all the rules set for UK airports in England. The airport is an important place for civil aviation in the UK and blackpool.