Tingwall Airport (LWK/EGET) Guide | Shetland’s Essential Inter-Island Flight Hub
Tingwall Airport, identified by the IATA code LWK and ICAO code EGET, is a crucial regional aerodrome located in the scenic Tingwall valley, approximately 4.6 miles (7.4 km) northwest of Lerwick, the main town of the Shetland Islands. While geographically the closest airport to Lerwick, it is vital as the archipelago’s inter-island flight hub, connecting the mainland to some of Shetland’s most remote communities.
General Airport Information, History, and Infrastructure
Opened in 1976, Tingwall Airport is a public-use facility owned and operated by the Shetland Islands Council. It holds a CAA Ordinary Licence, facilitating essential public transport and flight instruction. Its primary role is providing a crucial “lifeline” air service, ensuring connectivity, especially during adverse weather when sea transport may be limited.
Key Infrastructure Update (2025/2026): In a significant investment underscoring the airport’s importance, the Shetland Islands Council commenced a major runway resurfacing project for the 805-meter runway and apron. This essential £1.3–£1.4 million investment, which required the temporary relocation of services to Sumburgh Airport (LSI) during May 2025, ensures the airport’s compliance with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) licensing requirements and guarantees operational integrity for many years to come.
Airlines and Destinations: Connecting Remote Shetland
Tingwall Airport serves as a transit point for the most remote communities in the Shetland Islands, making it indispensable for island residents and niche tourism.
- Main Carrier: Air services are operated under contract by the Airtask Group (known historically as Directflight) on behalf of ZetTrans, Shetland’s Regional Transport Partnership.
- Lifeline Destinations: Scheduled air services run regularly between the Shetland Mainland (LWK) and the outer islands of Fair Isle (FIE) and Foula (FOA). These flights are typically short, lasting 15 to 25 minutes, and are conducted using Britten-Norman Islander (BN2P) aircraft, which are perfectly suited for the short runways and demanding conditions of the islands.
- Scenic & Charter Flights: Airtask also offers unique scenic charter flights over the magnificent Shetland landscape, providing an unparalleled aerial view of the lochs, coastlines, and historic sites. Reservations for these special flights can be made directly with the Airtask operations team at LWK.
Operational Focus: The inter-island flights are primarily designed to support the fragile communities of Fair Isle and Foula, offering year-round access and vital services. Historically, the air service has also covered routes to Papa Stour and Skerries, which highlights the airport’s long-standing role in regional accessibility.
Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services
As a small regional aerodrome, Tingwall Airport houses a modest, single-terminal building focused on efficiency for its inter-island passengers.
- Operating Hours: The terminal operates during specified hours, generally aligning with the flight schedule (e.g., approximately 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM on weekdays, with shorter weekend hours). Due to its size, overnight stays are strictly not permitted.
- Food & Retail: The Airfarye Cafe provides essential light refreshments, snacks, newspapers, and local gifts. There are no expansive duty-free shops or dedicated airport lounges available.
- Connectivity and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is available for passengers. Basic amenities include toilet facilities and an ATM. Passengers should note that comprehensive services such as currency exchange, luggage storage/lockers, and extensive disabled access facilities are limited due to the airport’s scale.
Transportation Options to and from Tingwall Airport
Reaching LWK from Lerwick requires prior planning as regular public transport is absent.
- Dial-a-Ride Taxi Service (Highly Recommended): This is the most reliable and convenient method. A dedicated, subsidised Dial-A-Ride Taxi service links the airport with the Viking Bus Station in Lerwick for each scheduled flight. Crucially, this service must be booked in advance (by 4 PM the previous day) by calling the booking line (+44 1595 745745). The journey takes around 10 minutes.
- Standard Taxi: Standard taxi services are available but limited. Pre-booking a local taxi is highly advisable to avoid delays. Estimated fare to Lerwick is typically between 10–15 GBP.
- Car Rental: Car hire services are not available on-site at Tingwall Airport. Visitors must arrange rental pick-up in Lerwick.
- Parking: A small, free parking area is provided immediately adjacent to the terminal building.
Accommodation Near LWK Airport
Since the terminal does not allow for overnight stays, visitors requiring accommodation should seek lodgings in the nearby administrative centre of Lerwick. Popular and well-regarded options include The Lerwick Hotel and The Shetland Hotel, which are well-connected by local transport links.
Contact Information and Booking
For inquiries regarding operations, flight information, or to arrange a scenic flight:
- Airport Address: Tingwall Airport, Gott, Shetland Islands ZE2 9XJ, UNITED KINGDOM.
- Airport Office Phone: +44 1595 840306
- Duty AFISO/Operations: 01595 744481 (Office Hours)
- Flight Booking (Airtask): +44 1595 840246 or Email: lwk.ops@airtask.com
- Dial-a-Ride Taxi Booking: +44 1595 745745
- Official Airport Website (Shetland Islands Council): www.shetland.gov.uk