The UK boasts the world’s shortest flight, which takes less time than preparing a pot noodle. The Loganair Westray to Papa Westray route clocks in at just one and a half minutes, with the actual flying time often closer to one minute, making it the fastest flight on Earth.
In fact, the quickest journey on this route took a mere 53 seconds. This is in stark contrast to Pot Noodles, which according to the snack’s guidelines, should be left to cook for four minutes to achieve optimal taste.
Loganair, a Scottish regional airline serving Scotland’s Highlands and islands, operates the route. The flight between the Orkney Islands of Westray and Papa Westray in northern Scotland is a subsidised public service obligation and forms part of a three-airport loop connecting Westray Airport, Papa Westray Airport, and Kirkwall Airport.
Flights on this route began in 1967, setting the record for the world’s shortest scheduled flights. The journey occurs daily in both directions, except for Saturdays, when only flights between Westray and Westray Papa are available, and Sundays, when only flights from Papa Westray to Westray operate.
Covering just 1.7 miles, the trip is approximately the same length as the runway at Edinburgh Airport. According to Wikipedia, Pilot Stuart Linklater has completed the short hop over 12,000 times, more than any other pilot, reports the Mirror. Despite retiring in 2013, Stuart still holds the record for the fastest flight time.
The route is primarily used by students and teachers travelling to explore the 60 archaeological sites on Papa Westray, as well as occasionally by health professionals attending to the needs of the island’s 90 inhabitants. Over time, the brief air journey has also attracted tourists.
The aircraft, unlike the larger planes typically seen at airports, accommodates just eight passengers and is flown by a single pilot. According to the Wikipedia page dedicated to this short-haul flight, Loganair’s chief executive, Jim Cameron, has described the plane as “robust” and perfectly “well suited to the vagaries of Scottish weather”.
For those looking to reach the islands, there’s an alternative to flying: a passenger ferry that offers several daily trips in each direction. The ferry covers approximately three miles and the journey lasts around 25 minutes. Additionally, a car ferry service is available twice a week.
Westray and Papa Westray are part of the Orkney Islands, a haven for birdwatchers, coastal walkers, and history enthusiasts. One notable site, ‘The Heart of Neolithic Orkney’, comprises a collection of Neolithic monuments including a large chambered tomb, two ceremonial stone circles, and a settlement.
The islands boast extensive coastlines with stunning white sand beaches such as Rackwick in Hoy, which is framed by towering sandstone cliffs. Loganair operates flights from Kirkwall Airport to six islands. A round trip from Westray to Papa Westray can be booked for as little as £14.50 per person.