Aberdeen Airport FAQs
You can find a list of frequently asked questions relating to Aberdeen Airport below. If you still have further questions you can visit our help centre or one of our other FAQ pages.
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Type your question
- Flight information
- Passports and visas
- Baggage and security
- Airport services and facilities
- Shopping and eating
- Transport
- Destinations
- Airport Products
- General travel enquiries
Flight information
How can I check flight details and arrival times?
Please visit our live flight arrivals database for information on flights into Aberdeen Airport.
How long before my flight do I need to be at the airport?
Please check with your airline for this information. As a general rule you should be at the airport 2 before your flight for a domestic flight (within the UK) 3 hours before your flight for European flights and 4 hours before your flight for long haul flights.
Many airlines offer an online check-in option which will save you time when you are at the airport giving you plenty of time to enjoy some food or shopping before you fly.
What time does my flight arrive at its destination?
Please visit our flight timetables, which contain information on arrival times.
Where can I find flight departures?
Please visit our live flight departures database. When you land on the page, toggle between 'departures' and 'arrivals' to find the information you are looking for. You can also track flights using our official Aberdeen Airport App
My flight has been cancelled. What do I do?
If your flight has been cancelled please contact your airline for further information.
What can I bring in my hand luggage?
We advise that you familiarise yourself with our security rules and procedures here. Some airlines will also have different rules on hand luggage, so contact your airline directly for this information before you fly. You can find airline contact details here.
How long do I need to check in before my flight is due to depart?
Check-in times can vary depending on your type of flight, so please arrive with a sufficient amount of spare time to pass through check-in and security. Checking-in times can usually be found on your individual ticket or itinerary, or alternatively by contacting your airline directly.
You should arrive at the airport two or three hours before your flight departs and allow enough time for your journey to the airport. This should include any traffic delays, particularly if you have a longer journey to the airport. At each of the arrival areas there will be a help phone if you require assistance.
What's the earliest time I can check in?
This can vary depending on your type of flight, so please contact your airline directly for this information.
How can I check if my e-ticket is valid?
If you would like to check if your e-ticket is valid, simply go on to the relevant airline's website, enter the details and check whether you are on the flight - you might need the 6 digit PNR.
What is a PNR number in an air ticket?
PNR, PNR number, or PNR code is an electronic detail consisting of numbers and letters given after booking a flight. PNR is the abbreviation of “Passenger Name Record” and it is also used as a booking number. This code allows passengers to manage their bookings with the relevant airlines. It can be found on your confirmation email.
How do I check routes and get timetables for flights?
On flight timetables pages you can select either the scheduled or charter flight timetables.
What is the current airport tax imposed on passengers?
Airport tax is ‘Air Passenger Duty’ (APD) and is imposed on passengers by the government. Aberdeen Airport is not involved in either levying or collecting this tax. It is paid when passengers book their ticket with the airline, and collected by the government once the journey has taken place. There are different rates of APD depending on the ticket types and journey type (ie EU/non-EU). Further information can be found at:
Passports and visas
Do I need a passport to travel to a UK/European destination?
If you are travelling within the UK then you can use any form of ID such as a passport or driving license. If you are checking in any hold luggage then you must present a passport.
If you are a UK citizen/passport holder travelling to another European country then a passport is required.
If you are a citizen of another European country then a National ID card is sufficient.
Who do I contact if my passport has expired/been lost/stolen?
If you are a UK citizen/passport holder and your passport has been lost or stolen you must cancel it as soon as possible to reduce the risk of anyone else being able to use it. You can do this on the Gov.uk website.
If you have lost your passport while abroad you should report the loss immediately to the local police and the British consulate/embassy/high commission.
Foreign nationals who lose their passport while in the UK should report it to the local police and their consulate/embassy.
If you are a UK citizen/passport holder and your passport has expired you can find information on how to renew it.
It is advisable to take photocopies of all important documents (passport, visas, tickets, EHIC, travel insurance, driving license etc) with you when you travel and to keep them separate form the original documents. This will mean a quicker resolution should you lose something.
What do I do if I’ve lost my passport in the airport?
Please seek assistance from any member of staff who will help you find out if this has been handed in at lost property, security search or to the Police. Found passports are returned immediately to the HM Passport Office or equivalent authority. If your UK passport is lost or stolen within the UK you should visit the Identity and Passport service website. You will also need to speak directly with your airline to advise them that your passport has been lost.
What are the visa requirements for entry into the UK?
The entry requirements for the UK vary depending on your nationality, country of residence, country of departure, reason for visit and duration of visit. You can find details on the Gov.uk website. Please ensure you have the necessary documents and permissions before you travel or you could be refused entry into the UK.
Baggage and security
What is my luggage allowance?
Baggage allowances are set by each individual airline. If you can not find this information from your ticket or booking agent, then please visit our airline database where you will find a contact number for your airline.
What items are prohibited from hand and hold baggage?
For packing tips and information on items that must not be carried on board a flight or within your hold luggage please visit our packing pages.
I’m diabetic, will my syringes/injection pens be allowed in hand luggage?
Please speak to your airline about your requirements before travelling, but be reassured that if you have a genuine medical condition (supported by a letter from your GP or hospital) then there should be no problem with taking such items on board the plane.
Can I carry sharp-edged religious/cultural regalia/accessories (eg Kirpans, Sgian Dhub or Dirks) on my person or in my hand baggage?
All such items are prohibited from hand luggage and from being carried on board a plane on your person. Please make sure that they are packed in your hold baggage as items confiscated at security control will not be returned to passengers.
Can I take knitting needles in my hand baggage?
Yes knitting needles are permitted in your hand baggage.
I will be travelling with a baby. Can I take their milk in my hand luggage?
If you are travelling with an infant then you can carry milk on board which exceeds 100ml. You can only take the amount needed for your journey and it may be subject to additional tests.
Can I carry make-up in my hand luggage?
Yes you can carry solid make-up with you. Any liquids, gels or pastes must be in containers no bigger than 100ml and must fit within one transparent resealable bag.
My baggage was mislaid/delayed and was not delivered to my final destination. Who do I contact?
Baggage delivery is the responsibility of each airline. For enquiries relating to hold baggage please contact your airline directly.
My baggage has been damaged. Who do I contact?
In the unlikely event that your baggage is damaged when it arrives please speak to a member of staff from the handling agent for your airline. You can find the handling agent for your airline by selecting your airline and using the relevant contact details.
What foods can I bring into the UK?
Please read the information on our tips & advice section.
If you have any further queries visit the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) website for more details. Please note, it is illegal to bring in banned products, or amounts of products that exceed any weight limits that apply. They will be seized and destroyed, and you may be liable to prosecution.
Will I be prevented from taking hand luggage on board my flight?
A very small number of airlines have these kind of restrictions on hand baggage. Please confirm with your airline (contact numbers can be found through this link). Remember that hand luggage should be kept to a minimum.
Are the x-ray machines film-safe?
We recommend you pack undeveloped film in your hand luggage. Special arrangements can be made for photographers with large quantities of film who wish it to be carried in the hold, by arrangement with your airline. Passengers should be assured that undeveloped film carried as hand luggage is safe.
CAA advice for transgender/non-binary/intersex travellers
The CAA supports the right for all air passengers to be treated with respect and dignity. When leaving the UK by air, it is necessary for all passengers to pass through airport security controls, where both persons and bags will be screened. This is an essential process to safeguard the travelling public, staff and the aviation industry. The following provides information and advice for transgender, non-binary and intersex passengers.
Buying tickets and checking-in: When making an airline reservation, you will be required to provide your name, date of birth and gender, which must match the details on your government issued travel document. This proof of identity may also need to be produced when you check in for your flight. It does not matter if your current gender presentation is not the same as that given on your travel documentation or the accompanying photograph, but the information on your ticket must align with that on your passport or other travel document, otherwise you may not be allowed to travel. If another person has booked your ticket, ensure they book using the information on your travel document. See www.gov.uk/changing-passport-information/gender for further information on passports.
Packing your Hold and Cabin Baggage: All cabin baggage must be screened by X-ray equipment as a minimum and may also be hand searched by airport Security Officers. UK airports are required by law to conduct this screening. Cabin baggage is subject to different regulatory measures than hold baggage and it is advisable to check regulations before travel. Where possible consider packing all but items that are essential for the journey in hold baggage, for example any item containing liquids, gels or powders. This includes gel-filled prosthetic items apart from those worn on the body for the journey. Prescription liquid medication in containers of more than 100ml may be carried in Cabin Baggage but must be removed for separate screening, unless you are specifically advised otherwise by the airport, and must be accompanied by medical confirmation, such as a letter from a medical professional or prescription, with names matching travel documentation. This can be carried in addition to the usual one-litre bag that is allowed for toiletry and cosmetic items. At the same time, please note carefully the items, particularly dangerous goods, that your airline advises should not be packed in Hold baggage.
Security: All passengers must be screened before going into the departure lounge usually by a Walk Through Metal Detector, a Security Scanner, or both. In order to speed up the journey, you should ensure that all metallic items are removed, including footwear containing metal, belts, watches and large pieces of jewellery and ensure all pockets are empty. Any alarms will require further screening, usually by hand search or Security Scanner. If a hand search is required, you may ask for a search in private and have a companion with you if you wish. A Security Officer should always ask for your consent before beginning a hand search. The Security Officer may also request that you undergo a search in private; this is always in an area or room away from public view, where a hand search will take place and possibly with a hand-held metal detector or other hand held security equipment.
A Security Scanner will highlight anything unusual that it detects may be being carried on the body by a passenger. It will not display an actual image, but will indicate for the Security Officer an area for further investigation on an outline of a generic figure. No identifiable or personal features are visible on the screen. If you think you know what may have caused the alarm, you may wish to explain to the Security Officer what the item that has indicated may be. In many cases, especially where the Security Officer understands what has caused the alarm, a hand search of the area may be sufficient. However, the Security Officer may request a private search if they do not feel that the cause of the alarm can be resolved in this manner. Passengers may opt out of screening by Security Scanner if they wish: however unless a medical reason for this can be evidenced, such as medical device that is attached to the body, then the airport is required to carry out an enhanced hand search in private. This may entail the loosening or removal of clothing in order that the Security Officer can satisfy themselves that no prohibited articles are carried on the person. All such searches are carried out with a witness and a companion may accompany you if you wish.
We hope that your journey through airport security will be without problems. However, if you experience any treatment you feel is unfair or discriminatory in any way, you should contact the airport concerned, via their Customer Services Department.
Airport services and facilities
What facilities are there at the airport?
Please visit our terminal information pages, which list the facilities available at Aberdeen Airport. If you need further help or directions when you get to the airport, please ask a member of staff who will be happy to help you.
Where can I find floor plans of the airport?
The airport maps page of our website contain maps of Aberdeen Airport and its facilities. You will need to download Adobe Acrobat (available on each of the pages) to view the maps, and in some cases launch Flash. Should you be unable to do this, please remember that we have printed pocket guides, including floor plans, available to all customers at our airport – they can be collected from the information desks or freestanding displays.
What are the opening hours for the airport?
The main terminal opens at 03:30, or two hours before the first departure and closes after the last arrival.
Is there somewhere to store my bags and other items at the airport?
There are left baggage facilities at the airport. Here you will find information on prices and opening times.
Who do I contact if I have lost something at the airport?
If you have lost items within the airport itself please contact the lost property office at the airport.
If you have lost items while on an aircraft or airline bus, please contact your airline directly.
I have special needs. What facilities are available at the airport?
Aberdeen Airport, like all other public buildings in the UK, meet the minimum standards for disabled access as laid down by the Equality Act, but we strive to go beyond what must legally be provided. We aim to offer all our passengers good facilities, easily accessed and well signposted. We also want all our customers to feel included in the travelling experience, regardless of any special needs they may have. Visit our special assistance pages to find out more about the facilities available.
How do I request a hidden disability lanyard?
If you or someone you are travelling with have a hidden disability we will be happy to provide you with a lanyard that will discreetly identify you to airport staff as requiring additional support. A lanyard can be collected from the Special Assistance desk located opposite the main entrance or requested in advance by emailing the Duty Manager team abzadm@aiairport.com. More information can be found on our special assistance pages.
What facilities do you have for those travelling with babies and small children?
There are babycare units in the following locations:
- Before security opposite WHSmith
- Before security next to the female toilet adjacent to the Granite City Bar
- After security next to the female toilet near to Gate 5
- After security in the Baby Changing Room between Gates 11 and 12
You can find more information on our family facilities.
What is included in the Northern Lights lounge?
The lounge offers a range of hot and cold food as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. You can view food menus on our Northern Lights lounge page.
A range of drinks are available in the lounge:
- House spirits including vodka, gin and rum
- White, red and rosé wine
- Draught beers including Coors Light and Brewdog IPA
- Magners Cider on draught
- Soft drinks (Coke/Diet Coke/Lemonade on draught)
- Irn-Bru bottles are available from the bar area
- Selection of Teas and Nespresso Coffee
Is there somewhere I can view the planes?
There are currently no viewing facilities while development work is being carried out around the airport.
Do you show sports matches at the airport?
No, we don’t show sports matches at the airport
Is there a public telephone that I can use after security?
No unfortunately not. However, if it’s a short time local call that is required, please use one of the information phones and an Airport Ambassador will come and offer you the use of a mobile phone.
Are there water fountains in the departure lounge after security?
Yes, there are water fountains near gate 6 just past Distilling house
Is there a smoking area after security?
No, the only smoking area is located outside the main terminal
Are there showering facilities at the airport?
No, not currently.
Do you have foot baths?
No, not at the moment.
Is there an area where I can use a breast pump?
There are babycare units in the following locations:
- Before security opposite WHSmith
- Before security next to the female toilet adjacent to the Granite City Bar
- After security next to the female toilet near to Gate 5
- After security in the Baby Changing Room between Gates 11 and 12
You can find more information on our family facilities.
Is there anywhere I can heat up baby food?
We don’t have a dedicated facility at Aberdeen Airport for heating up baby food but the cafes and restaurants can warm food in a microwave for you.
Do you have a soft play/crèche?
We are currently working on plans for new play equipment/area as part of the Terminal Transformation project.
How do I change my lounge booking?
Lounge bookings can be amended or cancelled up to 2 hours before your booking time. To make any changes to your booking visit the manage my booking area.
Where can I make a complaint/comment about my airport experience/the website?
We are sorry if you have had had a problem with either our website or at our airport. Please let us know your thoughts, both good and bad, and hopefully we can use your feedback to build better services for all our customers. Please visit our feedback pages in the contact us section.
Shopping and eating
What shops and restaurants are available at the airport and what are their opening times?
You can find a full list of the dining options available at the airport and their opening times on our shopping and dining page.
How much can I buy and what are my savings and allowances?
Please visit our shopping pages for information on airport savings and customs allowances or go to the HM Revenue & Customs website for full details of when tax and duty are payable.
What happens if the goods I purchase are faulty?
Our policies mean you can return almost any item bought at the airport free of charge, from anywhere in the world, for a full refund.
Can I buy before I fly and collect on my return to the UK?
Yes. If you are flying to a destination within the EU (excluding UK and Ireland when flying from Aberdeen) you may collect your purchases when you arrive back at the airport on your return flight. Visit our shopping collection pages for full details about this service.
Where is the tax refund station?
There is a tax refund and red help telephone
Transport
How do I get to the airport?
Visit our transport and direction pages, which have details of how to reach the airport whether you are making the journey by train, bus, coach or car.
What car parks are offered at Aberdeen Airport and how much are they?
For full information about the different types of car parking available, car park locations and prices, please visit our car parking options pages. To guarantee your space book in advance online.
How do I pre-book car parking?
Pre-book your car parking and on the whole pay a lower price than paying on arrival and you will guarantee your space.
How do I plan my onward journey from the airport?
Please visit our transport and direction pages, for information about the various transport options available from Aberdeen Airport.
I am disabled/have reduced mobility. What is the best way to get to the airport?
Most operators of public transport have arrangements for passengers with special needs and information about these services can be found on our special assistance transport pages. There are priority parking spaces and extra help on hand at our airport car parks should you be arriving at the airport by car.
What is the journey time to Aberdeen city centre?
For information about travel into Aberdeen city centre please see our dedicated page.
Does Aberdeen Airport have a train station?
The nearest rail station to the airport is Dyce, which is about two miles from the terminal and easily reached by taxi or bus. Find out more here
Destinations
Where can I fly to from Aberdeen Airport?
You can find a full list of the destinations available from Aberdeen Airport in our destination pages.
Will you be offering flights to… in the future?
If there is a destination you would like to fly to which is not currently offered please complete our feedback form.
Airport Products
How to cancel my parking, testing or lounge booking?
You can easily cancel or amend your booking using the manage my booking section here. All you need is your email address and booking reference. See our Parking FAQs for more info
How to change my parking, testing or lounge booking?
You can easily cancel or amend your booking using the manage my booking section here. All you need is your email address and booking reference. See our Parking FAQs for more info
General travel enquiries
Where can I get advice about the safety of travel to foreign countries?
You can find this information on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website. You can also visit our COVID FAQ Pages.
I want to take my pet overseas. How do I find out about pet passports/animal quarantine?
For further information on taking a pet abroad please see the Gov.uk website. You can find information on animal quarantine.
Please visit our pet travel pages for further information and key contacts.