Ruth Haines
Glasgow has two airports: Glasgow Airport (GLA) and Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK). Glasgow Airport, also known as Glasgow International Airport, is the main airport for the city of Glasgow. It is located 8.6 nautical miles west of Glasgow city centre and is the second-busiest airport in Scotland. Glasgow Prestwick Airport is 35 miles from Glasgow and is the largest in Glasgow based on land area. However, it is served mostly by low-cost carriers within Scotland and some flights to other European destinations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Glasgow Airport, Glasgow International Airport, Abbotsinch Airport |
| IATA | GLA |
| ICAO | EGPF |
| Location | Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland |
| Distance from Glasgow City Centre | 8.6 nautical miles (15.9 km; 9.9 mi) west of Glasgow city centre |
| Number of Terminals | 2 (Terminal 2 is check-in only) |
| Airlines | British Airways, United Airlines, easyJet, Emirates, Jet2.com, TUI Airways, Ryanair, Loganair |
| Destinations | Canada, Europe, Middle East, Edinburgh, Heathrow, Gatwick, London City, Malta, Zakynthos, Greece |
| Transport to City Centre | Glasgow Airport Express bus, taxi, private transfer, car rental |
| Facilities | Free WiFi, First Aid, pharmacies, baby change facilities, toilets, lifts, escalators, restaurants, shops, wheelchair assistance, service animal allowance, sunflower lanyards, baggage services |
| Parking | Short-stay parking, long-stay parking, multi-storey car park |
| Security | Next Generation Security Checkpoint (NGSC) scanners |
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What You'll Learn
Glasgow Airport vs Prestwick Airport
Glasgow Airport, also known as Glasgow International Airport, is an international airport located in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland. It is 8.6 nautical miles (approximately 9.9 miles) west of Glasgow city centre. The airport is owned and operated by AGS Airports, which also owns and operates Aberdeen and Southampton airports. Glasgow Airport handled 8.84 million passengers in 2019, making it the second-busiest airport in Scotland and the ninth-busiest in the United Kingdom. The airport serves a variety of destinations throughout Canada, Europe, and the Middle East.
Prestwick Airport, on the other hand, is located 30 miles southwest of Glasgow and is the secondary airport servicing the city. While there is no direct bus service from Prestwick Airport to Glasgow city centre, taxi and train services are available. The airport enjoyed a monopoly over transatlantic traffic under the 1946 US-UK Air Transport Agreement, while Glasgow Airport was restricted to handling UK and intra-European traffic.
In terms of accessibility, Glasgow Airport is more conveniently located for travellers heading to Glasgow, being significantly closer to the city centre. Glasgow Airport also offers a new fleet of electric buses that run 24 hours a day, providing a quick and environmentally friendly transport option to and from the airport.
However, Prestwick Airport has its advantages as well. For travellers seeking golf and beach experiences, Prestwick Golf Club is located near the airport and is built on rolling sandy land between the beach and inland areas.
Both airports offer unique benefits, but Glasgow Airport stands out for travellers prioritising convenience and accessibility due to its proximity to Glasgow and the availability of electric bus transportation.
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Transport options
Glasgow Airport, also known as Glasgow International Airport, is located in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, 8.6 nautical miles (15.9 km; 9.9 mi) west of Glasgow city centre. The airport is easily accessible by car, with the M8 motorway passing directly by it.
By car
Glasgow Airport is easily accessible by car, with the M8 motorway passing directly by it.
By bus
There are several bus services connecting Glasgow Airport with Glasgow city centre and other local destinations. The new First Bus Glasgow Airport Express is a fleet of electric buses that run 24 hours a day, taking you from the city centre to the airport terminal in as little as 15 minutes. The McGill's 757 bus service connects Paisley Gilmour Street train station with the airport.
By train
The nearest train station to Glasgow Airport is Paisley Gilmour Street, which is just over one mile from the terminal.
By taxi
Taxis are available at the front door of the terminal building for onward travel. Pre-booking a private taxi transfer is also an option, with the added benefit of door-to-door service and no waiting in lines.
By shuttle
Shuttle services are available to and from Glasgow Airport, offering luxury and comfort with professional drivers and premium vehicles. These can be pre-booked and offer fixed rates and flight tracking.
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Facilities for travellers with disabilities
Glasgow has two airports: Glasgow Airport and Glasgow Prestwick Airport. Glasgow Airport, also known as Glasgow International Airport, is an international airport located in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, 8.6 nautical miles (15.9 km; 9.9 mi) west of Glasgow city centre. It is the second-busiest airport in Scotland and the ninth-busiest airport in the United Kingdom. Glasgow Prestwick Airport is 35 miles from Glasgow.
Glasgow Airport offers a range of accessible facilities for travellers with disabilities. The airport aims to provide a safe, dignified, and stress-free environment for all travellers. To ensure you receive the necessary support, it is recommended to book special assistance in advance. Here are some of the key facilities and services available:
- Wheelchair access: The entire airport is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, lifts, and designated pathways.
- Accessible toilets: There are numerous accessible toilets throughout the terminal, featuring emergency pull cords and enough space for a wheelchair and an assistant.
- Changing Places: For passengers with profound disabilities, Changing Places facilities offer extra space and specialised equipment.
- Induction loops: To assist passengers with hearing impairments, induction loops are installed at various points, including check-in counters and information desks.
- Assistance dogs: Guide and assistance dogs are welcome at Glasgow Airport. Relief areas are available, and staff can provide water and assistance if needed.
- Special assistance help points: These are located in various areas, including car parks, Bute Road for coach travellers, the central reservation area, Terminal 2 check-in, and reserved seating areas.
- Sensory impairment support: The airport provides support for passengers with sensory impairments.
- Visual signage: Directional signs at Glasgow Airport are black on yellow, providing optimum contrast to aid all travellers.
To arrange special assistance, travellers with disabilities or reduced mobility can contact their airline at least 48 hours before departure. Alternatively, travellers can contact Glasgow Airport's special assistance provider, THS, by phone or email. Assistance is free for disabled passengers and should be booked through the airline. Glasgow Airport also offers a travel insurance quote through Holiday Extras to protect travellers before and during their trip.
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WiFi
Glasgow has two airports: Glasgow Airport (GLA) and Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK). Glasgow Airport, also known as Glasgow International Airport, is the main airport for the city of Glasgow. It is located in Paisley, Renfrewshire, 8.6 nautical miles (15.9 km; 9.9 mi) west of Glasgow city centre.
Glasgow Airport has free WiFi available throughout the airport. To access it, select the WiFi network “Glasgow_Airport_WiFi”. You will then be automatically directed to a browser window where you can create an account and indicate how long you would like to use the internet. WiFi is free for the first hour and then costs £2 per day. If you want a faster connection and unlimited WiFi, you can purchase a pass for one of the airport lounges.
Glasgow Airport has two terminal buildings, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are accessible by covered walkways. Terminal 2 is check-in only, so the main terminal is Terminal 1. Here, you will find domestic, European, and international flights, as well as a range of facilities, including medical care, pharmacies, baby change facilities, toilets, lifts, and escalators. There is also a selection of restaurants and shops catering to all budgets.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport is located 35 miles from Glasgow and is served mostly by low-cost carriers within Scotland and some flights to other European destinations. Ryanair is the only airline that operates from this airport, with flights to international destinations such as Barcelona, Tenerife-South, and Gran Canaria. Prestwick Airport is a cheaper option in terms of flight fares and hotel accommodation, but the distance to the city centre makes it a less popular option for travellers.
Both airports offer fast and affordable transport options to the city centre, including bus, train, taxi, private transfer, and car rental services.
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Parking
Glasgow Airport, also known as Glasgow International Airport, is located in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, 8.6 nautical miles (15.9 km; 9.9 mi) west of Glasgow city centre. It is the second-busiest airport in Scotland and the ninth-busiest airport in the United Kingdom.
Glasgow Airport offers various parking options to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the options available:
Short Stay Parking:
The Short Stay parking at Glasgow Airport is a multi-storey car park located right outside the terminal. This option allows you to walk straight from your car into the terminal building, making it convenient for those with luggage or who prefer a short walk.
Long Stay Parking:
The Long Stay parking option is ideal for those who are looking for great value and are planning to be away for a more extended period. A courtesy electric bus runs every 10-15 minutes, taking less than five minutes to reach the airport terminal. This option may be more cost-effective for longer trips.
Valet Parking:
For those seeking convenience and a hassle-free experience, valet parking might be the best choice. Simply drop off your car keys at Car Park 1, and the valet service will take care of the rest while you head straight to the terminal. This option is perfect for customers staying for longer durations.
Official Glasgow Airport Car Parks:
Glasgow Airport's official car parks offer secure and convenient parking options. These car parks are monitored by CCTV and regularly patrolled to ensure your vehicle's safety. They also offer flexible booking options, allowing you to change or cancel your booking up to 24 hours before your arrival. Blue badge spaces are also available in these car parks.
Off-Site Parking:
There are also off-site parking options near Glasgow Airport, such as Flying Scot Glasgow, which offers fully insured parking with additional services like a car wash and valet service. They provide courtesy shuttles to and from the airport terminal, operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Pre-Booking and Pricing:
Pre-booking your parking space at Glasgow Airport or with off-site providers is generally recommended to secure a space and take advantage of significant cost savings. Prices for pre-booking start from £48.59 per week, while on-the-gate prices tend to be premium rates. Additionally, some providers offer package deals that include hotel stays and other amenities.
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Frequently asked questions
Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is the main airport for Glasgow. It is located in Paisley, Renfrewshire, 8.6 nautical miles west of Glasgow city centre.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) is another option. It is 35 miles from Glasgow city centre.
Glasgow Airport is better for those wanting fast and cheap transfers into central Glasgow. Prestwick Airport is further out and will require additional travel time and costs to get into the city centre.
