Top 10 Best Airlines in North Devon

Flying To and From North Devon

North Devon does not have its own commercial airport, but that does not mean air travel is out of reach. Exeter Airport is roughly an hour and a quarter by road from Barnstaple, Newquay Cornwall Airport is reachable via the A39 Atlantic Highway, and Bristol Airport offers the widest choice of routes for those willing to drive a little further. For Lundy Island, a helicopter service operates during winter months when the ferry does not run.

This guide highlights ten of the best airlines for North Devon travellers, based on route choice, reliability, comfort and value. Routes and schedules change seasonally, so always check current timetables.

Choosing the Right Airport

Exeter is convenient for short-haul holidays and domestic connections. Newquay suits travellers from Bideford and the western side of North Devon, particularly for domestic flights. Bristol provides the widest European network and some long-haul connections. Heathrow and Gatwick remain the gateways for most long-haul travel, reachable by rail from Barnstaple via Exeter.

The 10 Best Airlines for North Devon Travellers

1. Loganair

Loganair is a leading UK regional airline serving South West airports including Exeter and Newquay. Its domestic routes are useful for business travellers heading to Scotland, the North and the Channel Islands.

2. TUI Airways

TUI Airways offers holiday flights from Exeter and Bristol to popular sun destinations. Package holidays that include flights make it a favourite with North Devon families.

3. Ryanair

Ryanair operates low-cost flights from Exeter, Newquay and Bristol to destinations across Europe. It is a strong choice for budget-conscious travellers and city breaks.

4. easyJet

easyJet has a large base at Bristol with an extensive European network. Its frequent flights and flexible fares suit both leisure and business travellers.

5. Jet2

Jet2 offers flights and package holidays from Bristol and is known for its family-friendly service and generous baggage allowances.

6. KLM

KLM connects Bristol to Amsterdam Schiphol, offering onward connections to hundreds of destinations worldwide. It is a useful alternative to travelling to London for long-haul journeys.

7. Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus connects South West England with Dublin, where travellers can clear US preclearance and continue to North America. It is a convenient option for transatlantic travel.

8. Eastern Airways

Eastern Airways operates regional routes, including services from Newquay, providing domestic connections for business and leisure travellers.

9. Isles of Scilly Skybus

Isles of Scilly Skybus operates flights to the Isles of Scilly from Land's End, Newquay and Exeter. It is a unique regional airline for travellers wanting a South West island escape.

10. British Airways

British Airways offers extensive long-haul and short-haul routes from Heathrow and Gatwick. For North Devon travellers heading worldwide, it remains a key choice.

Air Travel Trends

Regional airports are increasingly valued for shorter queues and easier parking. Low-cost carriers continue to expand European routes, while hub connections via Amsterdam and Dublin provide alternatives to London. Sustainability is influencing travel choices, with more travellers combining rail and air journeys. Seasonal routes from Exeter and Newquay vary significantly, so planning ahead is essential.

Tips for North Devon Travellers

Compare the total journey time and cost, including parking or rail travel to the airport. Book early for school holidays. Consider flying from Exeter for convenience and from Bristol for choice. Check baggage policies and fare types carefully, and allow extra time for travel on the A361 and M5 during busy summer weekends.

Getting to the Airport from North Devon

Most travellers drive to Exeter Airport via the A361 North Devon Link Road and the M5, a journey that is usually straightforward outside summer weekends. Newquay is reached along the A39 Atlantic Highway and can be convenient from Bideford and the western side of the district. Bristol Airport requires a longer drive up the M5, but its wider choice of routes and fares often justifies the journey. Rail travellers can use the Tarka Line from Barnstaple to Exeter St Davids for connections to London and beyond, then travel on to Heathrow or Gatwick.

Reaching Lundy Island

For those travelling to Lundy Island, the main route in summer is by sea, but a helicopter service typically operates from Hartland Point during the winter months. It is a short but spectacular flight over the Bristol Channel, and one of the most unusual air journeys in the region. Check seasonal availability and weight limits for luggage in advance.

Whichever airport you choose, allow extra time in summer when roads are busy with holiday traffic.

Business Travel from North Devon

North Devon's businesses in advanced engineering, healthcare, food production and tourism often need to travel to other parts of the UK and Europe. Regional flights from Exeter and Newquay can save considerable time compared with driving to London, especially for trips to Scotland, Northern England and the Channel Islands. Flexible fares and frequent schedules are key considerations for business travellers.

Final Thoughts

Although North Devon has no airport of its own, travellers have access to a wide range of airlines through nearby regional hubs and London airports. By choosing the right airport and airline, North Devon residents and visitors can travel efficiently to destinations across the UK and around the world.