Exeter Airport is at the heart of air travel in Devon and the South West, serving more than half a million passengers each year. It provides regional, European and holiday flights, as well as international connections through Amsterdam and Dublin.
Whether you’re looking for flights and destinations from Exeter Airport, comparing parking and transport options or simply want to know what the terminal is like to use, this independent guide brings together the practical information you need before travelling.
I’ve flown in and out of Exeter Airport a great many times and know the terminal and surrounding area. This guide combines that experience with current information to help passengers plan their journey.
Exeter Airport quick guide
Exeter Airport is Devon’s regional airport, located at Clyst Honiton near the A30 and M5. It handles UK, Channel Islands and European flights, including connections through Amsterdam and Dublin.
- Airport codes
- EXT (IATA) and EGTE (ICAO)
- Address
- Exeter Airport, Clyst Honiton, Exeter, Devon, EX5 2BD
- Telephone
- +44 (0)1392 367 433
- Airlines
- KLM Cityhopper, TUI Airways, Ryanair, Loganair, Aurigny, Aer Lingus Regional and Isles of Scilly Skybus
- When to arrive
- Allow around two hours before departure, unless your airline advises otherwise
- Parking
- Car parks P1 to P4 serve the terminal. P4 allows up to 30 minutes of free parking for drop-off or collection
- Bus connections
- Stagecoach 4A connects the airport with Exeter city centre and St David’s station.
- Nearest station
- Cranbrook is the nearest station, although there is no direct bus between the station and airport. Exeter St David’s has a direct airport connection on service 4A.
Information checked October 2027. Flight times, routes and transport arrangements can change.
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Airlines operating from Exeter Airport
Seven passenger airlines operate scheduled or seasonal flights from Exeter Airport across 2026 and 2027: KLM Cityhopper, TUI Airways, Ryanair, Loganair, Aer Lingus Regional, Aurigny and Isles of Scilly Skybus. Together they connect Exeter with UK cities, the Channel Islands, European destinations and international networks through Amsterdam and Dublin.
| Airline | Main Exeter Airport services | Type of service | Typical aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|
| KLM Cityhopper | Amsterdam Schiphol, with onward connections across Europe and worldwide | Year-round hub connection | Embraer E175 or E190 regional jet |
| TUI Airways | Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Greece, Cyprus and Turkey | Year-round and seasonal holiday flights | Boeing 737-800 or 737 MAX 8 |
| Ryanair | Alicante, Málaga, Faro and Palma de Mallorca | Year-round and seasonal European flights | Boeing 737-800 or 737 MAX 8-200 |
| Loganair | Edinburgh, Newcastle and Jersey | UK regional and Channel Islands flights | Embraer 145 or ATR 42/72 |
| Aer Lingus Regional | Belfast City and Dublin, operated by Emerald Airlines | Regional flights and connections through Dublin | ATR 72-600 turboprop |
| Aurigny | Guernsey | Channel Islands service | ATR 72-600 turboprop |
| Isles of Scilly Skybus | St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly | Seasonal regional service | De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter |
Routes and aircraft types can change according to season and operational requirements. Check current schedules with the airline or Exeter Airport before travelling.
KLM’s Amsterdam flight and Aer Lingus Regional’s Dublin service are particularly useful for onward journeys. Dublin also provides US preclearance for eligible connecting passengers, allowing US immigration formalities to be completed before departure.
Exeter Airport Flights and Destinations
Flights from Exeter Airport serve destinations across the British Isles and Europe, with a combination of regional, connecting and holiday services.
Where can you fly to from Exeter Airport?
Direct flights from Exeter Airport serve destinations across the UK, Ireland and Europe. The current programme includes year-round routes alongside seasonal summer and winter flights, with many holiday destinations also available for 2027.
| Country or region | Destinations from Exeter | Main airline or operator |
|---|---|---|
| UK & Ireland | Belfast City, Dublin, Edinburgh, Newcastle | Aer Lingus Regional, Loganair |
| Channel Islands | Guernsey, Jersey | Aurigny, Loganair |
| Isles of Scilly | St Mary’s | Skybus |
| Netherlands | Amsterdam | KLM Cityhopper |
| Portugal | Faro | Ryanair |
| Mainland Spain | Alicante, Málaga | Ryanair |
| Balearic Islands | Ibiza, Majorca, Menorca | TUI, Ryanair |
| Canary Islands | Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife | TUI |
| Greek Islands | Corfu, Crete, Kos, Rhodes, Zante | TUI |
| Cyprus | Paphos | TUI |
| Turkey | Dalaman | TUI |
| French Alps | Chambéry | Crystal Ski |
| Lapland | Enontekiö | Transun |
Routes are a mixture of year-round and seasonal services and may operate only on selected days. Always check current schedules with the airline, tour operator or Exeter Airport before booking.
UK and Channel Islands
Loganair flies directly from Exeter to Edinburgh, Newcastle and Jersey. These routes provide useful regional links and onward travel options without requiring a journey to Bristol or London.
Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Emerald Airlines, connects Exeter with Belfast City, while Aurigny serves Guernsey.
Skybus operates seasonal flights to St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly. The service generally runs from spring until autumn and provides a direct link from Devon to the islands.
International Connections from Exeter Airport
KLM Cityhopper operates daily flights from Exeter to Amsterdam Schiphol, providing onward connections across Europe, North America, Asia and Africa. Amsterdam’s success as an international hub is largely supported by KLM’s extensive network of connecting flights.
In my experience, transferring through Amsterdam with KLM has generally been straightforward. Passengers can check in at Exeter and have their baggage checked through to their final destination, making some international journeys surprisingly competitive in both price and travelling time.
Dublin is another useful connecting airport. Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Emerald Airlines, serves the Exeter route. Passengers continuing to the United States can complete US immigration formalities in Dublin before departure.
TUI operates direct holiday flights to Mediterranean and Canary Island destinations, including routes to Spain, Greece and Turkey. Ryanair serves Alicante, Málaga, Palma and Faro, although some flights operate seasonally.
Exeter to Manchester Flights Ended in August 2026
Loganair’s direct flights between Exeter and Manchester ended in August 2026, less than a year after the route launched in October 2025. The service had been promoted as a useful regional link and an alternative gateway for onward flights from Manchester.
Its withdrawal leaves Exeter without a direct service to Manchester. Passengers travelling farther afield can still use KLM’s Amsterdam service or Aer Lingus Regional flights through Dublin, while rail remains the principal direct public transport option between Exeter and Manchester.
Loss of Paris and London City routes
Direct flights from Exeter to Paris and London City ended following Flybe’s collapse in 2020. Their absence remains a significant gap, particularly for business travel and short city breaks.
Passengers travelling farther afield can instead connect through Amsterdam or Dublin.
Getting to Exeter Airport: Directions, Parking and Transport
By road
Exeter Airport is just off the A30 near M5 Junction 29. Use the postcode EX5 2BD for satnav directions.
Car parks P1 to P4 provide short and long-stay parking. Booking in advance may reduce costs, particularly for longer stays. Compare Exeter Airport parking prices with Holiday Extras before travelling.
P4 offers up to 30 minutes of free parking for dropping off or collecting passengers and is around a 10-minute walk from the terminal.
Parking at Exeter Airport is relatively expensive. P1 currently costs £8 for up to 15 minutes, with charges rising quickly for longer stays.
Some drivers stop on the double yellow lines outside the airport while waiting. This can cause congestion, and I would not recommend it.
Some public roads in the wider airport area may have unrestricted parking, but restrictions can change. Always check local signs, avoid obstructing businesses or residents and allow sufficient time to walk safely to the terminal.
If collecting someone, monitor the airport’s live arrivals board and avoid arriving significantly before the estimated landing time. For P4, remember that the walk to and from arrivals uses much of the free 30-minute period.
By bus
Stagecoach service 4A connects Exeter Airport with Exeter city centre and Exeter St David’s railway station. Services are more limited at weekends and on bank holidays.
By rail
Cranbrook is the nearest railway station, approximately three miles from the airport. It has services towards Exeter Central, Exeter St David’s and London Waterloo, but there is no direct bus between the station and the terminal. A taxi is generally the most practical option.
Pinhoe station is around three to four miles from the airport, but there is no longer a connecting bus service. Trains run from Pinhoe to Exeter Central, Exeter St David’s and stations towards Honiton and London Waterloo.
Exeter St David’s is the principal station for longer journeys. Stagecoach service 4A links it with the airport, while mainline trains connect Exeter with destinations across the UK.
Taxis and transfers
Apple Taxis Exeter operates around the clock and has a desk in the airport arrivals area. Passengers can book in advance or arrange a taxi after landing, with different vehicle sizes available.
A standard taxi to Exeter city centre typically costs £30-£45. Fares vary according to traffic, time of day and the vehicle required.
Car hire at Exeter Airport
Avis, Budget and Europcar have car hire offices at Exeter Airport. Sixt is also available seasonally from 2 June to 31 October 2026. Booking ahead is advisable, particularly during summer and school holidays.
| Car hire company | Availability | Collection |
|---|---|---|
| Avis | Year round | Exeter Airport car hire office |
| Budget | Year round | Exeter Airport car hire office |
| Europcar | Year round | Exeter Airport car hire office |
| Sixt | 2 June to 31 October 2026 | Exeter Airport car hire office |
The car hire area is close to the terminal, so passengers do not need an off-airport shuttle. Follow the car rental signs after leaving arrivals and check the collection instructions supplied with your booking.
Opening hours may be arranged around reservations rather than every arriving flight. Contact the rental company before travelling if your flight arrives late or is delayed. You should also check where to leave the keys when returning a vehicle outside normal office hours.
Prices can vary considerably between companies. Compare the total price rather than the headline daily rate, including insurance excess, additional drivers, mileage limits, fuel arrangements and child seats.
Compare car hire prices at Exeter Airport
Where to stay near Exeter Airport
An airport hotel can take some of the pressure out of an early departure or late arrival. Fair Oak House is within walking distance, while several other hotels are around two to five miles from the terminal.
If you are travelling before an early flight, you can also compare Exeter Airport hotels and hotel-with-parking packages with Holiday Extras.
Fair Oak House: closest to the terminal
Fair Oak House is directly opposite Exeter Airport, around 150 metres from the departures and arrivals areas. It is the most convenient choice for passengers who want to walk to the terminal without arranging a taxi.
Rooms are offered on a room-only basis, with airport parking packages available on selected bookings. Check prices and availability at Fair Oak House.
voco Zeal Exeter Science Park
voco Zeal Exeter Science Park is a modern four-star hotel located about 2 miles from Exeter Airport. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym, and extensive electric-vehicle charging facilities.
Its location near the A30 and M5 may suit passengers travelling by car. A taxi will usually be required to get between the hotel and the terminal. The hotel is approximately three miles from the airport.
Check prices and availability at voco Zeal Exeter Science Park.
The Grange Court B&B Hotel
The Grange Court B&B Hotel is a boutique guest house in Rockbeare, around two miles from the airport. Its rural setting provides a quieter alternative to the larger hotels beside the motorway.
Breakfast and on-site parking are available, although passengers will need to arrange transport to the terminal. Check prices and availability at The Grange Court B&B Hotel.
Holiday Inn Express Exeter East
Holiday Inn Express Exeter East is near M5 Junction 29, approximately five minutes from the airport by car. Breakfast is included, which may suit passengers without a very early departure.
Parking is charged separately, so include this when comparing the total cost. Check prices and availability at Holiday Inn Express Exeter East.
Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park
Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park is a modern four-star hotel near the M5. It is around four miles from the airport and has a rooftop restaurant overlooking the surrounding area.
This may suit travellers seeking a higher-specification overnight stay with on-site dining. Check prices and availability at Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park.
Budget hotels near the M5
Premier Inn Exeter M5 J29 is approximately three miles from the terminal and has an adjoining restaurant. Travelodge Exeter M5 provides another familiar budget option near the motorway.
Toby Carvery Exeter M5 J30 by Innkeeper’s Collection combines hotel rooms with an adjoining carvery restaurant. It is about 3 miles from the airport and offers free on-site parking.
The Blue Ball Inn is a popular Exeter pub with rooms, conveniently located between Exeter Airport and Topsham. It provides an independent alternative to the larger chain hotels, with on-site food and drink and straightforward road access to the airport.
What Exeter Airport is like to use
Exeter is considerably more compact than the nearest alternative, Bristol Airport. Check-in and security are generally straightforward, while arriving passengers can sometimes leave the aircraft and pass through arrivals in as little as 15 minutes.
Staff are, by and large, friendly, and the smaller terminal makes the experience simpler and less stressful than at many larger airports. However, facilities are a little more limited, and food and drink prices, as in most airports, are high for what they are.
Do not rely on the WHSmith before security for drinks, as bottles containing more than 100 ml cannot be taken through security. Opening times can also be less predictable during quieter periods and in winter.
The airside WHSmith is better stocked and usually offers a reasonably priced meal deal. This can be useful if you want something to eat while waiting for your flight or to take on board.
A quick guide to facilities at Exeter Airport
Exeter Airport has a compact terminal, with check-in, security, shops and departure gates close together. Its facilities are smaller than those at Bristol or major London airports, but passengers can still find places to eat, essential shopping, car hire and an executive lounge.
Exeter Airport opening times
The terminal operates seven days a week, with opening times aligned with the first and last flights. Check-in, security, shops and catering facilities open according to the day’s departure schedule and close after the final flights.
Opening times therefore vary by season and day of the week. Passengers travelling particularly early or late should check their airline’s instructions before setting out.
Security and hand luggage
Allow sufficient time for security, particularly during the main morning departure period. Exeter Airport advises that queues and checks can take between 15 and 45 minutes at busy times.
Liquids, gels and pastes carried in hand luggage must be in containers holding no more than 100 ml. Containers must fit inside one transparent, resealable plastic bag per passenger, with a maximum capacity of one litre and approximate dimensions of 20 cm by 20 cm.
Containers capable of holding more than 100 ml cannot normally pass through security, even when partly empty. Remove the liquids bag from your hand luggage and present it separately for screening.
Laptops, tablets and other large electrical items must also be removed and placed separately in a security tray. Coats, belts and some footwear may need to be removed when requested by security staff.
Essential medicines, baby milk and baby food may be exempt from the standard liquid limits, but additional screening or supporting documentation may be required. Passengers should check the latest rules before travelling.
Power banks, spare lithium batteries and vaping devices must be packed in hand luggage rather than checked baggage. Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the terminal.
Check both Exeter Airport’s current security advice and your airline’s baggage rules before packing.
Food and drink before security
Cove Café serves hot and cold drinks, pastries, cakes and savoury food before security. Opening times generally follow the flight schedule so that choices may be limited very early or very late in the day.
WHSmith also has a landside shop selling drinks, snacks, newspapers and travel essentials.
Food and drink after security
Coastline Café serves breakfast items, pastries, paninis, toasties, burgers and drinks in the departure lounge. Baby bottle warming and a children’s menu are available, although the airport does not sell baby formula or food.
Moorland Kitchen offers another airside option, with breakfast followed by lunch. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices are available, but the restaurant does not remain open for the final flights of the day. Exeter Airport lists its current cafés and opening arrangements.
Shops at Exeter Airport
WHSmith has shops before and after security, stocking books, magazines, confectionery, drinks and last-minute toiletries.
World Duty Free is in the departure lounge and sells fragrances, cosmetics, sunglasses, alcohol and gifts. Its Reserve and Collect service allows passengers to order online before travelling and collect their purchase at the airport.
Exeter Airport Executive Lounge
The Executive Lounge is on the first floor after security, above the restaurant. It provides runway views, quieter seating, Wi-Fi, snacks and unlimited tea, coffee and soft drinks.
Guests may also have a limited number of alcoholic drinks included. Lounge stays are normally limited to 3 hours, and booking is advisable due to limited capacity. Check Exeter Airport lounge prices and availability.
Wi-Fi and seating
Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, with unlimited access provided in the Executive Lounge. Seating is available in the check-in area and departure lounge, although the terminal can become busier around the main morning departures.
Flight information screens show check-in, boarding and gate updates.
Viewing aircraft at Exeter Airport
Exeter Airport does not have a dedicated public viewing area. P4 is currently the best option for watching aircraft, with views across parts of the airfield and a discounted tariff for longer viewing stays.
In my view, the absence of a proper viewing area is a missed commercial opportunity and leaves the terminal feeling a little soulless. Exeter does not have constant aircraft movements, but a sensibly priced viewing area with parking, drinks, and snacks could attract aviation enthusiasts while giving meeters and greeters a more welcoming place to wait.
Families travelling with children
Baby-changing facilities are available within the terminal. Coastline Café can warm baby bottles and provides a children’s menu, but families should bring sufficient formula and baby food for their journey.
Passengers should also check their airline’s rules for pushchairs, car seats and infant baggage before travelling.
Special assistance and accessibility
Special assistance is available for passengers with reduced mobility, hidden disabilities or other support requirements. Assistance should normally be requested through the airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before departure.
The airport’s online virtual tour covers parking, check-in, security, departures, arrivals and accessibility features. It includes videos in English and British Sign Language to help passengers understand the terminal before they travel. View Exeter Airport’s terminal and accessibility tour.
Smoking and vaping
Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside Exeter Airport. Passengers should check the current arrangements before passing through security, as they may not be able to leave the departure lounge and return.
Exeter Airport FAQs
Where is Exeter Airport?
Exeter Airport is at Clyst Honiton, around five miles east of Exeter city centre and close to the A30 and M5 Junction 29. The postcode for sat navs is EX5 2BD. The airport telephone number is +44 (0)1392 367 433.
Which airlines operate from Exeter Airport?
Airlines operating from Exeter Airport include TUI Airways, Ryanair, Loganair, Aurigny, Isles of Scilly Skybus, KLM Cityhopper and Emerald Airlines, which operates Aer Lingus Regional services. Routes and operating periods can change seasonally.
Which UK, Ireland and Channel Islands destinations can I fly to from Exeter?
Direct regional routes include Belfast City, Dublin, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Jersey and Guernsey. Skybus also operates seasonal flights to St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly. Loganair’s direct Exeter to Manchester service ended in August 2026. Individual routes may operate only on selected days or during part of the year.
Can I fly directly from Exeter to Manchester?
No. Loganair’s direct flights between Exeter and Manchester ended in August 2026. Passengers travelling farther afield can still connect through Amsterdam with KLM or Dublin with Aer Lingus Regional, while rail services provide an alternative for journeys between Exeter and Manchester.
Which international destinations can I fly to from Exeter Airport?
KLM flies to Amsterdam, providing connections to destinations across Europe and beyond, while Aer Lingus Regional serves Dublin. TUI and Ryanair operate leisure routes to destinations in Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands, Greece, Cyprus and Turkey. Seasonal services also include winter flights such as Chambéry for the French Alps. Routes and operating periods vary by season.
How early should I arrive at Exeter Airport?
Follow the arrival time stated by your airline or tour operator. As a general guide, many passengers are advised to arrive around two hours before a short-haul flight, allowing enough time for check-in, bag drop and security. Allow extra time during school holidays and busy morning departure periods.
What are Exeter Airport’s opening times?
The terminal operates seven days a week, with opening and closing times aligned with the first and last scheduled flights. Check-in, security, shops and catering facilities open according to the day’s flight programme, so exact times vary by date and season.
What parking and drop-off options are available at Exeter Airport?
Car parks P1 to P4 provide short-stay and long-stay parking. P4 allows up to 30 minutes of free parking for dropping off or collecting passengers. Book airport parking in advance where possible and check the current tariffs before travelling.
Can I get to Exeter Airport by public transport?
Yes. Stagecoach service 4A links Exeter Airport with Exeter city centre and Exeter St David’s railway station. Services can be more limited in the evenings, at weekends and on bank holidays, so check the current timetable before travelling.
Which railway station is nearest to Exeter Airport?
Cranbrook is the nearest railway station, approximately three miles from Exeter Airport, but there is no direct bus between the station and the terminal and a taxi is generally the most practical connection. Pinhoe is around three to four miles away but also has no direct airport bus. Exeter St David’s is the most useful station for longer-distance journeys and is connected with the airport by Stagecoach service 4A.
What facilities are available at Exeter Airport?
The compact terminal has cafes, WHSmith shops, World Duty Free, seating, flight information screens, baby-changing facilities, car hire desks, a taxi desk and an Executive Lounge. Catering and retail opening times follow the flight schedule, so the full range may not be available for very early or late flights.
Does Exeter Airport have an executive lounge?
Yes. The Executive Lounge is on the first floor after security, above the restaurant. It offers quieter seating, runway views, Wi-Fi, light snacks and a selection of drinks. Stays are normally limited to three hours, and advance booking is recommended because capacity is limited.
Is Wi-Fi available at Exeter Airport?
Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, and the Executive Lounge includes unlimited Wi-Fi. Connection instructions and any current access limits are displayed at the airport.
What are the security and liquids rules at Exeter Airport?
Liquids in hand luggage must normally be in containers of no more than 100 ml and placed in one clear, resealable bag holding no more than one litre, approximately 20 cm by 20 cm. Remove the liquids bag and larger electronic devices when asked at security. Exemptions may apply to essential medicines and baby milk. Spare lithium batteries, power banks and e-cigarettes must be carried in hand luggage, not checked baggage. Check your airline and airport guidance before travelling because rules can change.
Is special assistance available at Exeter Airport?
Yes. Assistance is available for passengers with reduced mobility, hidden disabilities or other support needs. Request it through your airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before departure where possible. Exeter Airport also provides an online terminal and accessibility tour, including English and British Sign Language videos.
Are there hotels near Exeter Airport?
Yes. Fair Oak House is directly opposite the terminal, around 150 metres away. Nearby alternatives include voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, The Grange Court B&B Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Exeter East, Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park, Premier Inn Exeter M5 J29, Travelodge Exeter M5 and Toby Carvery Exeter M5 J30 by Innkeeper’s Collection. Most options other than Fair Oak House require a taxi or car to reach the terminal.
Where can I watch aircraft at Exeter Airport?
Exeter Airport does not have a dedicated public viewing terrace. Car Park P4 is the most practical viewing area for meeters and greeters and offers views across parts of the airfield. Park in a marked bay, check the current parking tariff and do not stop on the terminal approach roads.
Where can I check live Exeter Airport departures and arrivals?
Use Exeter Airport’s official live flight information pages for current departures and arrivals, including scheduled times, delays, gates and cancellations. Check again before leaving home because flight information can change at short notice.
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