Westray, Orkney Islands — August 9, 2025
In a world obsessed with speed, Scotland quietly holds a record that aviation enthusiasts and curious travelers find irresistible: the shortest scheduled passenger flight on Earth, lasting just 53 seconds in the air.

Operated by Loganair, this tiny hop connects the remote Orkney Islands of Westray and Papa Westray, covering a mere 1.7 miles (2.7 km) — roughly the length of a commercial runway.

🛩️ A Flight That Defies Convention

• No seat selection, no food or drink service, and no bathroom — just a quick lift-off and landing.
• The aircraft used is a Britten-Norman BN2B-26 Islander, seating only 8–10 passengers.
• Passengers are advised to arrive just 10 minutes before departure, a stark contrast to typical airport routines.

🌍 More Than a Record — A Lifeline

While tourists flock to experience this aviation oddity, the flight serves a critical role for locals:

• Students, teachers, doctors, and mail carriers rely on it for daily transport across the islands.
• The route is subsidized by the Scottish government as part of a public service obligation, ensuring year-round connectivity.

🎯 A Bucket-List Experience

• Tourists can purchase a round-trip sightseeing ticket for around £50, available only on the day of travel and subject to seat availability.
• The flight has become a global attraction, drawing aviation lovers from across the world to tick off this quirky milestone.

🏝️ Destination Highlights

• Papa Westray, locally known as Papay, is home to Neolithic ruins, dramatic cliffs, and just 90 residents.
• The island’s Knap of Howar is believed to be the oldest preserved stone house in Northern Europe, making the journey not just short — but historically rich.