Eday Airport (EOI/EGED): The Essential Air Hub of the North Orkney Islands
Eday Airport, locally known as London Airport due to its proximity to the Bay of London, serves as a critical lifeline for the remote island of Eday within the Orkney archipelago of Scotland. Operating under the management of the Orkney Islands Council, this small but vital aerodrome facilitates essential inter-island travel, ensuring connectivity for residents, supplies, and crucial medical services.
This guide provides the most current information on Eday Airport’s operations, facilities, and the significant planned upgrades designed to secure its future role in regional transport.
Airport Overview and Lifeline Service
Eday Airport (IATA: EOI, ICAO: EGED) is situated approximately 1 km from the island’s centre, operating at an elevation of 20 ft (6 meters) above mean sea level. As a non-major public airport, it handles limited passenger traffic—approximately 2,000 passengers annually—but its function is indispensable for the local community.
| Detail | Specification |
| Location | Eday, Orkney Islands, Scotland |
| Operator | Orkney Islands Council |
| IATA / ICAO Codes | EOI / EGED |
| Elevation | 20 ft / 6 m |
| License | CAA Ordinary Licence (Public Use) |
| Operation Note | Not licensed for night use. Flight operations are on a limited, daytime basis. |
Runways
The airport features two modest runways, typically catering to small, propeller-driven aircraft used in the inter-island network:
- Runway 07/25: 527 meters (1,729 ft) in length, featuring a graded hardcore surface.
- Runway 18/36: 518 meters (1,699 ft) in length, featuring a grass surface.
Major Terminal Upgrade and Future Facilities
Currently, Eday Airport operates with minimal services, reflecting its size and primary role as a regional transport link. Historical facilities such as public Wi-Fi and café/dining options are not available, and accessibility was previously limited due to the age of the building.
Recent Developments and Modernization
The future of Eday Airport’s infrastructure is significantly brighter, with a major project underway to replace the outdated terminal building:
- Project Funding: The Scottish Government confirmed funding in late 2024 through the Islands Infrastructure Fund, with an allocation of £346,000 towards the new terminal.
- Objective: The replacement building is part of a larger programme to modernize airfields across the North Isles, aimed at securing long-term service resilience.
- Key Improvement: The new facility will vastly improve access and passenger facilities, particularly for those traveling for medical reasons or with mobility challenges, ensuring a more comfortable and appropriate environment for essential journeys.
Airlines and Inter-Island Connectivity
Eday Airport is an integral component of the Orkney Islands’ comprehensive inter-island transport network.
- Primary Airline: Loganair, operating under the public service obligation (PSO) contracts, is the main carrier.
- Destinations: Scheduled flights connect Eday to the Orkney mainland and neighboring islands, primarily serving:
- Kirkwall (KOI): The main hub airport for the Orkney Islands.
- Stronsay (SOY): Another essential stop on the North Isles air route.
The frequency of flights ensures regular passenger and light cargo movement, maintaining vital community links.
Ground Transportation and Accommodation
Transportation options on Eday are simple and limited, reflecting the island’s low population density and small size.
- Taxi Service: A limited taxi service is generally available outside the terminal. The journey to the island’s main community areas is short (approximately 5 minutes). Pre-booking is highly recommended.
- Bus and Car Rental: No regular public bus services operate to or from the airport, and on-site car rental services are not available.
- Parking: A small, complimentary parking area is available for travellers.
Accommodation
Travellers requiring overnight stays on the island have limited options. The most prominent option available near the airport is the Eday Community Hostel.
Contact Information and PPR Requirements
Eday Aerodrome operates under the authority of the Orkney Islands Council. Pilots and operators should note that the airfield is subject to Prior Permission Required (PPR) for all flights, and landing fees are detailed upon approval.
| Contact Detail | Information |
| Operator Website | www.orkney.gov.uk |
| Telephone | +44 1857 622257 |
| PPR Status | Prior Permission Required (PPR) |
| Address | Eday, Orkney, UNITED KINGDOM |