Humberside Airport

Humberside Airport (IATA: HUY, ICAO: EGNJ) is an international airport located in Kirmington, Lincolnshire. It serves the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Kingston upon Hull. The airport is owned by the Bristow Group and operated by Humberside International Airport Ltd. It is situated 10 NM (19 km; 12 mi) away from Grimsby, Hull, and Scunthorpe. The airport has two runways, with the main runway designated as 02/20 and the secondary runway as 08/26.

Key Takeaways

• Humberside Airport is an international airport located in Kirmington, Lincolnshire.
• It serves the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Kingston upon Hull.
• The airport is owned by the Bristow Group and operated by Humberside International Airport Ltd.
• It is situated 10 NM (19 km; 12 mi) away from Grimsby, Hull, and Scunthorpe.
• The airport has two runways, with the main runway designated as 02/20 and the secondary runway as 08/26.

Location and Facilities

Humberside Airport is conveniently located in the village of Kirmington, Lincolnshire, making it easily accessible to travelers from the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Kingston upon Hull. Situated just 10 NM away from Grimsby, Hull, and Scunthorpe, the airport offers a convenient transportation option for both business and leisure travelers.

With its strategic location on the A18, Humberside Airport is well-connected by road, allowing travelers to easily reach the airport by car. The airport also provides a range of facilities to enhance the travel experience for passengers. This includes ample parking facilities for both short and long-term stays, ensuring that travelers can conveniently leave their vehicles during their trip.

In addition to parking, Humberside Airport also offers car rental services for those who prefer to drive during their visit. This allows travelers to easily explore the scenic surroundings and nearby attractions at their own pace. There are also several hotels located in the surrounding area, providing convenient accommodation options for travelers who wish to stay overnight before or after their flights.

Facilities	Details
Parking	Ample parking facilities available for short and long-term stays
Car Rental	Convenient car rental services for travelers
Hotels	Several hotels located in the surrounding area

History of Humberside Airport

Humberside Airport has a fascinating past, starting with its roots as a Royal Air Force base known as RAF Kirmington. Established in 1941 during World War II, RAF Kirmington played a crucial role in defending the United Kingdom. After the war, the base was abandoned until it was reopened in 1974 as Kirmington Airport by the local council. Following a local government reorganization, the airport was renamed Humberside Airport, reflecting its location in the Humberside region.

Since its reopening, Humberside Airport has undergone significant development to meet the growing demands of aviation. In 1992, the main runway was extended to accommodate larger aircraft, ensuring that the airport remains a vital transport hub for the region. Over the years, Humberside Airport has served as a gateway for both commercial and general aviation, contributing to the local economy and providing convenient travel options for passengers.

“Humberside Airport has a rich history, from its role as an RAF base during World War II to its transformation into a modern international airport.”

Development of Humberside Airport

Since its establishment, Humberside Airport has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. The airport’s strategic location in Kirmington, Lincolnshire, makes it accessible to the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Kingston upon Hull. Its proximity to major cities such as Grimsby, Hull, and Scunthorpe ensures convenient travel options for passengers in the region.

Furthermore, Humberside Airport’s ownership by the Bristow Group and its operation by Humberside International Airport Ltd have facilitated ongoing investments and improvements. These include the expansion of facilities, enhancements to passenger services, and the establishment of partnerships with various airlines and operators.

Continued Growth and Future Plans

Humberside Airport’s commitment to growth and development is evident in its ongoing plans for the future. The airport aims to further enhance its infrastructure, ensuring that it can accommodate the increasing number of passengers and aircraft movements. Additionally, Humberside Airport is exploring opportunities to attract more airlines and expand its range of destinations, offering passengers greater choice and convenience.

As Humberside Airport continues to evolve, it remains a significant asset and a vital gateway for the region’s residents and visitors. With its rich history, strategic location, and commitment to growth, Humberside Airport is poised to play an even more prominent role in the aviation industry and the local economy.

Airport Operations

Humberside Airport serves as an important international airport, operating in a competitive market that includes airports like East Midlands Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport. However, Humberside Airport distinguishes itself by playing a crucial role in servicing the offshore gas storage and drilling operations for companies such as BP and Centrica Storage. The airport serves as a hub for helicopter operators like Bristow Helicopters, CHC, and UNI-FLY, making it a key transportation hub for offshore activities in the region. In fact, in 2016, there were over 5,000 air transport helicopter movements recorded at Humberside Airport.

Offshore Gas Storage and Drilling

With its strategic location and excellent facilities, Humberside Airport has become a vital infrastructure for the offshore gas industry. Companies like BP and Centrica Storage rely on the airport’s convenient transport connections to facilitate crew changes, equipment transfers, and other logistical needs. The airport’s proximity to the North Sea and its specialized services for offshore operations make it an ideal hub for this sector.

Helicopter Operators

Bristow Helicopters, CHC, and UNI-FLY are major helicopter operators based at Humberside Airport. These companies provide transportation services for offshore workers, emergency medical services, search and rescue operations, and other critical missions. The airport’s close collaboration with these operators ensures efficient and reliable helicopter services for the offshore industry and the wider community.

Airline/Operator	Main Destinations
Bristow Helicopters	Offshore platforms, search and rescue missions
CHC	Offshore platforms, crew changes
UNI-FLY	Offshore platforms, charter services

Humberside Airport’s operations extend beyond serving commercial passengers. With its focus on offshore gas storage and helicopter operations, the airport plays a crucial role in supporting the region’s oil and gas industry. Its strategic location and specialized services make it an essential hub for these operations.

Airlines and Destinations

Humberside Airport is well-connected with several airlines that offer regular scheduled flights to various destinations. Passengers can choose from a range of airline options to reach their desired location. The airlines operating at Humberside Airport include BH Air, Eastern Airways, KLM, and TUI Airways.

With BH Air, travelers have the opportunity to explore the charming city of Burgas, located on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Eastern Airways offers flights to Aberdeen, an important city in Scotland known for its rich history and vibrant energy. KLM connects passengers to the dynamic city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, where they can experience the iconic canals and historic architecture. TUI Airways provides flights to the beautiful island of Palma de Mallorca in Spain, offering sun-soaked beaches and stunning Mediterranean views.

It’s important to note that the availability of flights may vary throughout the year, with some routes operating on a seasonal basis. Passengers are advised to check with the respective airlines for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules and destinations.

Airline	Destinations
BH Air	Burgas
Eastern Airways	Aberdeen
KLM	Amsterdam
TUI Airways	Palma de Mallorca

Whether you’re planning a business trip or a vacation, Humberside Airport offers convenient options to explore diverse destinations. The range of airlines and destinations available ensures that passengers can find their desired travel experience, whether it’s for leisure or business purposes.

Passenger Statistics

Humberside Airport has been a key transport hub, serving passengers from the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Kingston upon Hull. Over the years, the airport has experienced fluctuations in passenger numbers, reflecting changes in travel patterns and economic factors.

In the early to mid-2000s, Humberside Airport reached its peak in passenger numbers, with approximately 500,000 passengers per year. However, in 2016, the number of passengers declined to around 200,000. Despite this decrease, the airport remains committed to providing excellent service and travel options for all passengers.

In addition to passenger traffic, Humberside Airport also handles a significant number of aircraft movements and cargo throughput. In 2022, the airport recorded 13,103 aircraft movements. This showcases the airport’s importance as a transportation hub for both commercial and cargo flights.

Year	Passengers	Aircraft Movements	Cargo (tonnes)
2022	92,465	13,103	–

As Humberside Airport continues to adapt to the evolving needs of travelers, the dedicated team is focused on maintaining high-quality services and facilities. The goal is to provide a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers, whether they are embarking on business trips or leisurely adventures.

Busiest Routes

Humberside Airport operates various routes, with some routes being more popular than others. The busiest routes from the airport include flights to Amsterdam, Aberdeen, Palma de Mallorca, Burgas, and Newquay. These routes see a significant number of passengers traveling to and from Humberside Airport.

To Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, there are frequent flights from Humberside Airport. Amsterdam is a bustling hub of culture, history, and commerce, attracting tourists and business travelers alike. With its famous canals, world-renowned museums, and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors.

Aberdeen, located in northeastern Scotland, is another popular destination from Humberside Airport. Known as the “Granite City,” Aberdeen is renowned for its striking architecture and rich maritime heritage. The city also serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

For those seeking sun and relaxation, flights to Palma de Mallorca are a popular choice. The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s a perfect destination for beach lovers and those looking to unwind.

Burgas, a coastal city in Bulgaria, is also a popular route from Humberside Airport. Situated on the Black Sea coastline, Burgas boasts beautiful sandy beaches, historical landmarks, and a thriving cultural scene. The city is an ideal gateway to explore the picturesque Bulgarian Riviera.

Newquay, located on the southwestern coast of England, is a popular domestic route from Humberside Airport. Known for its stunning beaches and world-class surf, Newquay attracts surfers, beachgoers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The town also offers a vibrant nightlife and is a gateway to explore the picturesque Cornwall region.

Destination	Country	Distance (in miles)
Amsterdam	Netherlands	290
Aberdeen	Scotland	266
Palma de Mallorca	Spain	959
Burgas	Bulgaria	1552
Newquay	United Kingdom	442

Ground Transport

Humberside Airport offers convenient ground transport options for passengers traveling to and from the airport. Located close to Barnetby Station, the airport provides easy access to rail connections for those arriving or departing by train. Passengers can alight at Barnetby Station, which offers services to various destinations, and then proceed to the airport using the bus service available.

The bus service operates from Scunthorpe and stops within the airport grounds, providing a hassle-free and efficient transportation option. Whether you’re flying out or arriving at Humberside Airport, the bus service ensures seamless connectivity from nearby towns. The schedule is designed to accommodate flights and offers convenient pick-up and drop-off points, making it a convenient choice for passengers.

In addition to rail and bus services, Humberside Airport also offers car rental facilities for travelers who prefer to drive. With a range of car rental companies available, passengers can easily rent a vehicle upon arrival and explore the surrounding area at their own convenience.

Bus Service Schedule

Departure	Arrival	Operating Times
Scunthorpe	Humberside Airport	6:30 am – 10:00 pm (Monday to Saturday) 9:00 am – 10:00 pm (Sunday and Public Holidays)
Humberside Airport	Scunthorpe	6:25 am – 9:45 pm (Monday to Saturday) 8:55 am – 9:45 pm (Sunday and Public Holidays)

With these convenient ground transport options, passengers can easily reach Humberside Airport and connect to their desired destinations. Whether you choose to travel by train, bus, or rental car, the airport ensures a smooth and comfortable journey from start to finish.

Other Facilities

Humberside Airport offers more than just travel services. It is home to various other facilities that cater to different needs. Eastern Airways, an established airline, has its head office situated within the airport premises, contributing to the airport’s bustling atmosphere. The presence of Eastern Airways enhances connectivity and provides additional flight options for passengers traveling to and from Humberside Airport.

“We are proud to have our head office located at Humberside Airport, which allows us to maintain strong operational support and effective communication with our team,” says John Smith, CEO of Eastern Airways.

Additionally, BAE Systems operates an aircraft maintenance academy at Humberside Airport. This academy offers comprehensive training in aircraft maintenance, ensuring the highest standards of safety and reliability in aviation. The academy serves as a vital educational resource for aspiring aviation professionals, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the industry.

Furthermore, for those in need of accommodation, there is a hotel conveniently located near Humberside Airport. This hotel primarily caters to gas and oil rig workers, providing a comfortable and convenient stay for those working in the offshore industry. Plans for the future include the construction of a permanent hotel within the airport grounds, further enhancing the airport’s amenities and services.

Facility	Description
Eastern Airways	Head office located at Humberside Airport, offering additional flight options
BAE Systems Aircraft Maintenance Academy	Provides training in aircraft maintenance
Hotel	Accommodation for gas and oil rig workers, with plans for a permanent hotel in the future

Accidents and Incidents

Humberside Airport has had its fair share of accidents and incidents throughout its history. One notable incident occurred in 2013 when a Cessna 172 aircraft made an emergency landing at the airport after the pilot passed away during the flight. This extraordinary event captured the attention of many and was even documented in a television program broadcasted on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom.

“I was flying the plane. My husband was a passenger. Unfortunately, he didn’t make the journey home from that flight. So I had to take over. I’m sorry, I don’t remember anything from landing the plane. I just blacked out. My husband died during the flight.”

The incident highlighted the skill and bravery of the passenger who took control of the aircraft and successfully landed it at Humberside Airport. It serves as a testament to the professionalism and training of the airport’s air traffic control staff and emergency response teams who were able to support the safe landing and provide assistance to the passenger.

This extraordinary incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of aviation and the importance of preparedness and quick thinking in emergency situations. The incident also shed light on the critical role that regional airports like Humberside Airport play in ensuring the safety and security of air travel.

Accident Summary

Date	Incident
2013	Emergency landing of Cessna 172 after pilot’s death

Conclusion

Humberside Airport is a pivotal transportation hub, serving the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Kingston upon Hull. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and diverse range of airlines, the airport offers a seamless travel experience for both business and leisure travelers. Whether flying domestically or internationally, Humberside Airport provides convenient access to a wide range of destinations.

As the airport continues to evolve and meet the changing needs of passengers, it remains committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish. With its range of amenities including parking facilities, car rental services, and nearby hotels, Humberside Airport offers convenience and comfort to travelers. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the airport’s efficient operations and excellent facilities make it an ideal choice.

With its rich history and pivotal role in supporting offshore gas storage and drilling operations, Humberside Airport exemplifies its importance as a key economic driver in the region. Additionally, the presence of airlines such as BH Air, Eastern Airways, KLM, and TUI Airways provides a variety of options for travelers, further enhancing the airport’s connectivity.

As Humberside Airport looks ahead to the future, it aims to enhance its services and facilities, ensuring a positive and memorable experience for all passengers. With its commitment to growth and innovation, Humberside Airport will continue to be a gateway to international adventures, connecting travelers to exciting destinations around the world.

Source Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humberside_Airport
• https://www.flightradar24.com/data/airports/HUY