City of Derry Airport is one of several key airports in Ireland.
Located in Eglinton, around a 15-minute drive from Derry City Centre, the airport is a crucial link to the UK.
Opened in 1941 as a military airbase, City of Derry Airport has a more interesting background than many Irish airport.
What to know about City of Derry Airport
Although a visit to City of Derry Airport is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.
1. Location
The airport is conveniently located approximately 7 miles/12 km northeast of Derry City.
2. Car Parking
City of Derry Airport offers both short-term and long-term car parking facilities. It’s worth booking these in advance at peak travel times.
3. Airport Amenities
As this is a relatively small airport, there isn’t endless choice for food. We Make and Fed & Watered are two of the main food outlets.
4. Airline Carriers
Ryanair and Loganair are the primary airlines serving City of Derry Airport, providing direct connections to several destinations across the UK, like Manchester, Liverpool, London and Glasgow.
What to know about arriving in/leaving from City of Derry Airport
If you’re used to flying in and out of the likes of Belfast International Airport, you have a slightly different experience ahead of you.
City of Derry Airport is much smaller and thus much less busy than the airports in Belfast. Here’s some handy info.
Immigration and customs
As most flights from City of Derry Airport are domestic, immigration and customs are more straightforward and efficient than in airports that offer international flight services.
Transportation
The airport is served by a dedicated Airport shuttle service to and from Derry city centre. Taxis and car hire are also available.
Check-in
City of Derry Airport recommend that flyers arrive no later than 2 hours before their flight departure.
Security
There’s no real surprises with going through security at City of Derry Airport – you can expect the same restrictions to be in place on what you can/can’t bring with you (info here).
The history of City of Derry Airport
City of Derry Airport was originally established as RAF Eglinton, a Royal Air Force base, during World War II.
It wasn’t until the 1950s that the UK’s Ministry of Defence gave the land back to its original owners.
Considerable investment took place during the 1990s. This allowed for the construction of a new terminal building along with other much needed improvements.
In 1994, it said goodbye to its old name (RAF Eglinton) and it became City of Derry Airport.
The airport grew in popularity during the 2000s with the introduction of routes operated by low-cost carriers like Ryanair.
Things to do nearby
Photos via Shutterstock
One of the beauties of City of Derry Airport is that it’s a short spin away from many of the best places to visit in Derry.
Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Derry Airport!
1. Derry City Walls
One of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe, Derry’s walls are steeped with history and offer glorious city views.
2. Tower Museum
Located within the city walls, the very popular Tower Museum offers a look into the rich history of Derry.
3. Guildhall
The Guildhall is a magnificent structure that features stunning stained glass windows and an impressive organ.
4. Peace Bridge
This pedestrian bridge across the River Foyle symbolises unity and reconciliation in the city.
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.