Papa Stour Airstrip (PSV/EGZQ): A Vital, Yet Isolated, Gateway to the Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands, renowned for their dramatic coastal scenery and profound isolation, are home to several vital but tiny inter-island transport links. Among these is the Papa Stour Airstrip (PSV/EGZQ), a remote and unassuming facility that once provided a critical connection for the island’s small community. While commercial services are currently suspended, this guide provides the most up-to-date information for visitors, aviation enthusiasts, and researchers interested in this secluded island gateway.
General Information
Papa Stour Airstrip stands as a fascinating example of essential infrastructure tailored to the unique demands of remote island life.
- Geographical Context: The airstrip is strategically located on the picturesque island of Papa Stour, one of the most westerly islands in the Shetland archipelago, Scotland. It lies approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the main settlement of Biggings, accessible via a short, local road.
- Aviation Coordinates: For navigation, the facility is situated at the precise coordinates of 60° 19′ 0” N, 1° 42′ 0” W.
- Ownership and Governance: The airstrip is wholly owned and maintained by the Shetland Islands Council, highlighting its public service role in connecting the region’s remote communities.
- Historical Significance: Historically, the airstrip served a crucial function by facilitating limited regional and inter-island flights, ensuring that residents and essential services could travel between Papa Stour and the Shetland Mainland.
- Passenger Volume (Pre-Suspension): Reflecting the island’s small population, the facility historically served a modest volume of passengers, accommodating approximately 1,000 travelers in 2024 immediately prior to the cessation of scheduled services.
Current Operational Status and Facilities
As of the 2025 update, the operational status of Papa Stour Airstrip is key for anyone planning a visit to this stunning island.
- Airstrip Status (2025 Update): The Papa Stour Airstrip is officially listed as unserved by scheduled passenger traffic. Commercial air services on this route have been inactive since at least April 2021, with the route currently suspended indefinitely.
- Infrastructure: The facility is exceptionally modest, consisting primarily of a gravel runway suitable for smaller aircraft, complemented by a very small wooden shed that serves as the terminal.
- Terminal Amenities: Given its small scale and current inactivity, the terminal building offers only basic services.
- Connectivity: No public Wi-Fi is available at the airstrip.
- Commercial Services: Visitors should note that there are no cafe, retail, or refreshment facilities on site.
- Accessibility: The airstrip lacks dedicated disabled access facilities.
- Accommodation Planning: There are no guesthouses or hotels near the airstrip itself. For visitors seeking nearby lodging, securing accommodation in Lerwick (on the Shetland Mainland) or exploring self-catering options on Papa Stour well in advance is highly recommended.
Airlines and Destinations (Currently Unserved)
The Papa Stour route formed a vital part of the UK’s Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes, ensuring connectivity for remote areas.
- Scheduled Airlines: The airstrip is not currently served by any scheduled passenger airlines.
- Former Operator: Prior to the suspension of services, flights were reliably provided by Directflight under contract from the Shetland Islands Council.
- Former Route: The sole, vital connection was to Lerwick/Tingwall Airport (LWK). This inter-island route was a lifeline for the islanders, connecting them to the administrative and transport hub of Shetland.
Ground Transportation and Parking
Accessing Papa Stour and navigating the island requires careful pre-planning due to the limited infrastructure.
- Public Transport: There is no regular bus service operating on Papa Stour, emphasizing the island’s highly localized transport network.
- Taxi Services: Taxis are not typically available directly outside the terminal shed. Any necessary local transfers require pre-booking essential arrangements with a local provider. The expected fare for the short distance to the main village is estimated between £10-£20 GBP.
- Vehicle Rental: Car rental services are not available at the airstrip.
- Parking: A small parking area is provided adjacent to the terminal and is free of charge.
Key Updates and Contact Information
For those drawn to the dramatic landscapes and peaceful environment of Papa Stour, the primary value of the airstrip remains its symbolic connection and potential for future resumption of services, or use by private or emergency flights.
- Future Outlook (2025): Scheduled passenger flights remain suspended or severely limited as of 2025. The airstrip’s continued existence supports emergency operations and defines its proximity to Papa Stour’s isolated natural beauty and dramatic scenery, including sea caves and coastal cliffs.
- Air Services Management: When active, the management of Shetland’s inter-island flights is overseen by the AirTask Group Ltd., operating under contract from ZetTrans, the regional transport partnership.
- Official Contact Information:
- Address: Papa Stour, Shetland, UNITED KINGDOM.
- Telephone (Shetland Islands Council): +44 1595 840246 (for general enquiries related to the island’s infrastructure).
- Official Website (Shetland Council Air Services): www.shetland.gov.uk (Check this source for the most official updates on inter-island transport).