Wick John O’Groats Airport

Wick John O’Groats Airport (WIC/EGPC): The Vital Northern Gateway to Caithness and the North Coast 500

Wick John O’Groats Airport (WIC/EGPC) is far more than just a small regional airfield; it is the critical air link and economic lifeline for Caithness and Sutherland in the remote far north of the Scottish mainland. Located just 2 km (1 nautical mile) north of the historic town of Wick, the airport serves as the essential starting or ending point for travellers exploring the dramatic coastal scenery, rich Viking heritage, and the world-famous North Coast 500 (NC500) tourist route. Its importance is underscored by its role in supporting both vital business sectors, such as the offshore energy industry (including the Beatrice Offshore Windfarm), and the flourishing tourism trade.

General Information and Location (WIC/EGPC)

Wick John O’Groats Airport is strategically situated at the northeastern tip of mainland Scotland. It is wholly owned and operated by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), ensuring its continued operation as a public service.

Current Airlines and Essential Connectivity

The airport’s primary scheduled passenger service is maintained via a Public Service Obligation (PSO), underscoring its strategic importance to the local economy.

• Main Airline Operator: Eastern Airways.
• Key Destination (PSO Route): Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ). This route offers essential daily (six days a week: Mon-Fri, Sun) connectivity, particularly for the business sector, including energy and oil/gas, and allows passengers easy onward transfers to major UK hubs like London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
• PSO Status Update: The Wick-Aberdeen PSO is a funded service, currently contracted to run until at least March 2025, securing this vital air bridge for the region.
• Other Operations: The airport remains a key base for non-scheduled flights, private aircraft, and regular helicopter services supporting the offshore wind and oil installations in the North Sea.
• Historic Routes: The airport previously offered services to Edinburgh, which were suspended in 2020.

Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services

Wick Airport features a single, compact, and highly functional terminal designed for a quick and stress-free transit experience. Recent updates have focused on enhancing the passenger journey.

• Terminal Count: 1 Terminal.
• Connectivity: Complimentary Wi-Fi access is provided for all passengers.
• Security Updates (2024): Following a national initiative, the airport has implemented new security screening equipment. Passengers should check the latest HIAL guidance, as restrictions on liquids over 100ml in hand luggage were temporarily reintroduced in June 2024, but the process for electronic devices is being streamlined.
• Amenities:
  • On-site café/snack bar for refreshments.
  • Limited retail offerings for essential items.
  • Assistance and Accessibility (PRM): The terminal offers step-free access throughout the departure lounge and accessible facilities for those with reduced mobility, which should be pre-booked through the airline.

Ground Transportation and Parking

Getting to and from WIC is straightforward, with affordable and convenient options available for travelers.

• Car Parking: FREE PARKING is available to all passengers and visitors in the car park directly outside the terminal. This provides a significant advantage for travelers beginning or ending their North Coast journeys. Blue Badge bays are also available.
• Taxi Services: A taxi rank is available outside the terminal exit, offering a rapid, approximately 10-minute journey to Wick town centre, typically costing between 10-15 GBP.
• Bus Services: Local bus services (Stagecoach routes including 75, 77, X99) connect the area. The nearest bus stop is located on the A99 Hill Avenue, approximately 1.1 km (0.7 miles) south of the terminal.
• Car Rental: Reputable car hire operators, such as Avis and Hertz, are available on-site, perfect for those planning to drive the scenic NC500 route.

Discover the Jewels of Caithness

The airport’s proximity to some of Scotland’s most celebrated natural and historic destinations makes it an ideal travel hub, appealing to the growing tourism market.

• The North Coast 500: WIC is perfectly positioned on this iconic driving route, allowing visitors to start their adventure immediately upon arrival.
• Castle of Mey: The former residence of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, and the most northerly inhabited castle in Scotland.
• Old Pulteney Distillery: Take a tour and explore the unique maritime malt whisky produced in the heart of Wick.
• Wick Heritage Museum: Discover the town’s compelling history as Europe’s largest herring fishing port in the 19th century.
• The Flow Country: A globally significant blanket bog ecosystem and a newly designated UNESCO Peatland World Heritage Site, offering unique landscapes for exploration.

Contact and Official Information

For flight information, latest security advice, or official details, passengers should refer to the airport operator.

• Official Operator Website: www.hial.co.uk/wick-john-ogroats-airport
• Airport Address: Wick, Caithness, KW1 4QP, UNITED KINGDOM
• Telephone: +44 1955 602215