What to expect at our airports
The safety and security of everyone at our airports is our priority.
Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) operate 11 regional airports, which vary in size and passenger numbers. Therefore, the safety processes at our airports may be slightly different to what you have come to expect when travelling through larger, busier airports.
Our airports follow the same UK regulations as every other airport. These regulations require us to have processes in place to make sure we operate in a safe and secure manner. The equipment and different types of security checks in place at each airport meets the regulatory security requirement for that size of that airport.
For more information on security searches and what to expect at our airports, please take a moment to read our FAQs:
- Barra Security FAQs
- Benbecula Security FAQs
- Campbeltown Security FAQs
- Dundee Security FAQs
- Inverness Security FAQs
- Islay Security FAQs
- Kirkwall Security FAQs
- Stornoway Security FAQs
- Sumburgh Security FAQs
- Tiree Security FAQs
- Wick John O'Groats Security FAQs
Security restrictions at our airports
Body scanners are being used to screen passengers at the following airports:
- Benbecula
- Inverness
- Islay
- Kirkwall
- Stornoway
- Sumburgh
Passengers can request an alternative search method.
Liquids, pastes, aerosols, and gels in a container with a capacity of 100 ml or less which are contained within the required 20cm x 20cm, 1 litre clear plastic bag can be taken in your cabin baggage.
There are strict rules about bringing food, plants and meats back from abroad, which you will need to bear in mind when travelling overseas. Illegal goods will be confiscated and fines may be imposed so please check what you are allowed to bring back before you travel. More information here.
When packing for your journey, remember that vapes, e-cigarettes, spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your hand luggage and never packed in checked baggage. Before you travel, check your airline's baggage rules and read the latest guidance from the UK Civil Aviation Authority's Pack Right campaign page: Pack right. Safe flight. | UK Civil Aviation Authority
UK eVisas
The UK has transitioned from physical immigration documents to eVisas. This change impacted those who previously used physical immigration documents such as biometric residence permits (BRPs), passports containing visa vignette stickers and ink stamps, or biometric residence cards (BRCs), to enter the United Kingdom. Visa holders are encouraged to visit www.gov.uk/eVisa to find out more information.