Top 10 Best Airlines in South Hams

Flying To and From South Hams

South Hams is a rural district without its own airport, and Plymouth's former airport closed in 2011. Travellers therefore rely on nearby regional airports, chiefly Exeter Airport, which is roughly an hour's drive from Totnes and Ivybridge, along with Bristol Airport, Cornwall Airport Newquay and the major London hubs reached by rail from Totnes and Plymouth. Choosing the right airline and airport combination can save time, money and stress.

This guide highlights the airlines that South Hams travellers use most often, covering holiday flights, short-haul connections, island routes and long-haul travel.

Key Airports for South Hams Travellers

Exeter Airport is the closest major airport for most of the district and offers holiday flights and regional routes, including connections to the Channel Islands. Bristol Airport offers a wider range of European destinations. Cornwall Airport Newquay provides some domestic and seasonal routes, while Heathrow and Gatwick are the gateways for long-haul travel.

The Top 10 Airlines for South Hams Travellers

1. TUI Airways

TUI Airways is a leading holiday airline that has operated flights from Exeter Airport to popular sunshine destinations. Its package holidays combine flights, transfers and accommodation, offering convenience and financial protection for South Hams families.

2. Ryanair

Ryanair is Europe's largest low-cost airline and has operated services from Exeter and Bristol airports. Its extensive network and low fares make it a popular choice for short European breaks, though travellers should check baggage rules carefully.

3. easyJet

easyJet has a major base at Bristol Airport, offering a wide range of European routes. Its reliable schedule, user-friendly app and frequent flights make it a favourite for South Hams travellers willing to make the journey to Bristol.

4. Jet2

Jet2 is known for its friendly customer service and family-focused holidays. With flights from Bristol, it offers South Hams residents access to Mediterranean and Canary Island destinations, often packaged as Jet2holidays with included transfers.

5. Blue Islands

Blue Islands is a regional airline connecting the Channel Islands with UK airports, including Exeter. For South Hams residents, it provides a quick and convenient route to Jersey and Guernsey for short breaks or business trips.

6. Loganair

Loganair is the UK's largest regional airline, operating domestic routes that have included services from South West airports. It is valued for connecting smaller regional airports with cities in northern England and Scotland.

7. Isles of Scilly Steamship Group Skybus

Skybus operates small aircraft flights to the Isles of Scilly from South West airports including Exeter, Newquay and Land's End. For South Hams residents seeking a unique island escape, it offers a memorable journey over the Cornish coast.

8. British Airways

British Airways is the UK's flag carrier, offering an extensive long-haul and short-haul network from Heathrow and Gatwick. South Hams travellers often take the train from Totnes or Plymouth to London to connect with BA flights worldwide.

9. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM has operated flights from Bristol to Amsterdam Schiphol, one of Europe's best-connected hubs. This allows South West travellers to reach hundreds of global destinations with a single connection, avoiding the journey to London.

10. Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic is known for its premium long-haul service to North America, the Caribbean and beyond. Its Heathrow flights are popular with South Hams travellers heading for long-haul holidays and business trips, combined with a rail journey to London.

Trends in Air Travel for South West Travellers

Regional airports continue to rebuild their networks, and route availability can change from season to season. Many travellers combine rail and air travel, using direct trains from Totnes and Plymouth to London or Bristol. Sustainability concerns are encouraging some travellers to fly less often but for longer trips, and to consider rail alternatives for European journeys.

Airlines are investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft, digital check-in and improved mobile apps, making the travel experience smoother for passengers.

Tips for South Hams Flyers

Compare the total cost and time of each option, including airport parking or rail fares, rather than just the flight price. Book early for school holiday flights, allow plenty of time for rural road journeys, and check the latest route schedules, as regional services can change. Consider package holidays for added financial protection.

Rail Connections as Part of the Journey

Rail plays an important role for South Hams flyers. Totnes, Ivybridge and nearby Plymouth stations offer direct services towards London Paddington, Bristol and Exeter, making it possible to reach major airports without driving. For Heathrow, travellers can connect via London Paddington, while Bristol Airport is reached by coach or taxi from Bristol Temple Meads. Combining rail with air travel can reduce parking costs, avoid motorway congestion and make the start of a holiday more relaxing.

Booking rail tickets in advance often brings significant savings, and allowing a generous buffer between train arrival and flight departure helps avoid stress if there are delays.

Conclusion

Although South Hams has no airport of its own, residents and visitors enjoy access to an excellent choice of airlines through Exeter, Bristol, Newquay and London. From TUI and Ryanair for holiday flights to Blue Islands for the Channel Islands and British Airways or Virgin Atlantic for long-haul adventures, the right airline can make every journey to and from this beautiful district simple and enjoyable.