What is The Shortest Flight in the World?

What is The Shortest Flight in the World?

When we think about flights, we often imagine spending hours in the air, crossing countries, oceans, and seas. But not all flights are long. Some flights are short. In fact, there is one flight that is so short it is often over before you know it. Check it out below.

Image: A photo of a small white aircraft flying high in the clear blue sky during the day.

What is the Shortest Flight in the World?

The world’s shortest flight happens between Westray and Papa Westray, two small islands in Scotland. These islands are part of the Orkney Islands, which are located off the northern coast of mainland Scotland. The distance between them is a tiny 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometres). That is shorter than some people’s daily walks.

This flight takes just under two minutes, and if the wind is in your favour and everything goes smoothly, it might even be over in 90 seconds from takeoff to landing. You will barely have time to buckle your seatbelt before you touch down on the next island.

Why is There a Flight for Such a Short Distance?

So, why would anyone take a flight that’s shorter than driving across town? Well, the islands in this part of Scotland are remote, and the waters between them can be rough. A quick flight is often the safest and most efficient way to travel between Westray and Papa Westray, especially for locals who need to get back and forth for work, school, or medical appointments.

The airline that operates this record-breaking flight is Loganair, a regional Scottish airline that has been flying people around the Orkney Islands for decades. It is a small plane, usually a Britten-Norman Islander, which can carry around eight passengers. It may not be a big, fancy jet, but it is perfect for the short trips between the two islands.

Other Short Flights in the World

While the Westray to Papa Westray flight holds the crown for the shortest flight in the world, it is not the only short trip taken. There are several other short flights that while not quite as fast, still offer travellers a quick and convenient way to cover short distances.

For example, there is a flight between St. Gallen in Switzerland and Friedrichshafen in Germany that takes about 8 minutes and covers 13 miles (21 kilometres). Another short flight takes place between the Caribbean islands of Sint Maarten and Anguilla. This route is popular with vacationers, as the flight takes just 10 minutes and covers around 12 miles (19 kilometres).

In Africa, there is a well-known short flight between Tanzania's Seronera Airstrip in the Serengeti and the Kogatende Airstrip near the Mara River, which takes about 15 minutes. This short trip is a favourite for travellers heading out on safari, as it saves time and offers breathtaking aerial views of one of the world’s most famous wildlife regions.

Conclusion

While there are several short flights that happen around the world, the crown goes in Scotland, between Westray and Papa Westray. This flight lasts under two minutes, making it a quick and convenient way to travel, and with a price tag that won’t break the bank.

Whether you are a traveller looking for a fun experience or someone just trying to get from one island to another, the Westray to Papa Westray flight shows that not all flights need to be long to be useful.