Exeter Airport Guide - Features, Services & Facilities
Content
Exeter Airport (EXT) is the primary gateway for Devon and the South West peninsula, with about 500,000 passengers a year. The single terminal, just 5 miles from Exeter city centre, has direct connections to over 25 destinations with major leisure carriers such as TUI and Ryanair, a convenient alternative to Bristol for regional travellers.
Introduction: The Heart of the South West
Exeter Airport is an important transport hub for Devon, Cornwall and Somerset. It is owned and operated by Regional & City Airports (RCA), and passenger numbers rose again in 2025/2026, mainly because TUI Airways now bases a second aircraft at the airport for new summer routes.
Exeter Airport is smaller than the big international hubs and is known for speed, simplicity and a friendly regional feel. Its single terminal keeps walking distances short. For a summer holiday in the Greek Islands or a business trip to Dublin, you typically get from car park to departure lounge in under 30 minutes.
Key Airport Stats 2026
- Passenger Volume: ~500,000 annually
- Airlines: 5 Major Operators (TUI, Ryanair, Aer Lingus, Loganair, Blue Islands)
- Runway: 2,083 metres
- Location: Clyst Honiton, East Devon (EX5 2BD)
Recommended Check-In Times
Exeter is a smaller airport, but keep to the check-in times, especially in the peak summer season (May–September), when TUI holiday flights depart in waves.
- TUI / Holiday Charters: Arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure.
- Scheduled Flights (Ryanair/Loganair): Arrive 2 hours before departure.
- Desk Closing Times: Check-in desks typically close strictly 40 minutes before flight time.
Most airlines operating at EXT, particularly Ryanair and Aer Lingus, strongly advise checking in online 24 to 48 hours before arrival. TUI passengers can also check in online to use dedicated Bag Drop lanes, which speeds up the process significantly.
How to Reach EXT Airport?
Exeter Airport is just off the A30, with fast access from the M5 motorway and the wider South West region.
By Car
The airport is in Clyst Honiton, just east of Exeter.
- From the M5: Exit at Junction 29 and follow the signs for the A30 East (Honiton) and the "Airport" symbols.
- From the East (A303/A30): Follow the A30 westbound towards Exeter; the airport is clearly signposted just before the M5 junction.
- Sat Nav Postcode: EX5 2BD.
By Bus
The local bus network provides a reliable link to the city centre.
- Stagecoach Service 4A: This is the primary bus link. It connects Exeter St Davids Railway Station, the City Centre (Cheeke Street), and the Airport.
- Frequency: Typically runs every 20–30 minutes during the day.
- Journey Time: Approx. 30–40 minutes from St Davids Station.
- Early/Late: Check timetables for early morning flights, as services may not align with the first departures of the day (06:00 AM).
By Train
There is no railway station at the airport itself.
- Nearest Major Station: Exeter St Davids. From here, you must take the 4A Bus or a taxi to the terminal.
- Alternative: Pinhoe Station is physically closer but has fewer transport connections to the terminal. St Davids is the recommended station for easy transfers.
By Car Hire
The Car Rental Centre is just outside the main terminal building, a short walk across the car park.
- Operators: Major brands like Europcar, Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise operate on-site.
- Advice: During summer, availability can be low. Pre-booking is essential.
What is the Pick-Up and Drop-Off Procedure?
Exeter Airport uses a tiered zoning system for vehicle access. Choosing the correct car park can save you money.
1. Car Park 1 (Express Drop-Off)
Directly opposite the terminal entrance (1-minute walk).
- Cost: £6.00 for up to 15 minutes (Price subject to 2026 confirmation).
- Usage: Ideal for rapid drop-offs.
- Payment: Pay-on-foot machines or contactless at the exit barrier.
2. Car Park 4 (Free Drop-Off)
For drivers wishing to avoid charges.
- Cost: Free for the first 30 minutes.
- Location: Approximately 8-10 minutes walk from the terminal building.
- Usage: Perfect for picking up passengers if you arrive early, as it allows waiting time without a fee. A shuttle bus is occasionally available but walking is often faster.
Which Destinations Does EXT Airport Cover?
Exeter Airport offers 25+ direct destinations, focusing heavily on Sun and Sea holiday routes and key domestic connections.
Destination Highlights
EXT is a major base for TUI, offering extensive flights to the Canary Islands, Balearics and Greek Islands. Year-round connections to Dublin (Aer Lingus) allow easy US pre-clearance transfers, while important links to Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Isles of Scilly keep the South West connected to the rest of the UK.
Complete List of Direct Destinations (2026)
| Region | Primary Destinations Served |
|---|---|
| UK & Ireland | Belfast City, Dublin, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guernsey, Jersey, Isles of Scilly (Skybus). |
| Spain (Mainland) | Alicante, Malaga. |
| Balearic Islands | Majorca (Palma), Ibiza, Menorca. |
| Canary Islands | Tenerife South, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria. |
| Greece | Corfu, Crete (Heraklion), Rhodes, Zante (Zakynthos). |
| Portugal | Faro (Algarve). |
| Turkey | Antalya, Dalaman. |
| Cyprus | Paphos. |
| France | Chambéry (Seasonal Ski). |
Which Airlines Fly from Exeter Airport?
Exeter has 7 core airlines and relies on long-standing partnerships with regional and leisure carriers.
Airline Overview
TUI Airways is the dominant carrier, especially in summer, operating large Boeing 737 aircraft to holiday hotspots. Ryanair operates select routes to Spain and Portugal. Loganair provides the essential tartan tail links to Scotland, while Blue Islands and Aurigny connect passengers to the Channel Islands.
Complete List of Airlines
- TUI Airways: The largest operator (Holiday Charters).
- Ryanair: Low-cost flights to Alicante, Malaga, and Faro.
- Aer Lingus Regional: Operated by Emerald Airlines (Dublin).
- Loganair: Flights to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
- Blue Islands: Flights to Jersey.
- Aurigny: Seasonal flights to Guernsey.
- Isles of Scilly Skybus: Seasonal flights to St Mary's.
What Parking Options Are Available at EXT Airport?
Exeter Airport offers 4 official car parks, all located within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the terminal. All are Park Mark® certified.
Car Park 1 (Premium)
- Location: Directly opposite the terminal (1-2 min walk).
- Best For: Short business trips or passengers with reduced mobility.
- Price: The most expensive option.
Car Park 2 (Short Stay)
- Location: Adjacent to Car Park 1 (3-4 min walk).
- Best For: Weekend breaks.
Car Park 3 (Mid/Long Stay)
- Location: A 5-7 minute walk from the terminal.
- Best For: 1-week holidays.
Car Park 4 (Long Stay / Value)
- Location: 8-10 minute walk or shuttle bus transfer.
- Best For: 2-week family holidays and budget travelers.
- Bonus: Offers 30 minutes free for pick-up/drop-off.
SaveOnPark Exclusive: SaveOnPark provides the best Exeter Airport parking deals. Turn-up prices at Exeter can be high. Pre-booking your space in Car Park 3 or 4 through our platform saves you up to 60% compared to the gate price. We check prices daily so you get the cheapest official parking rates available.
What Facilities Does EXT Airport Provide?
The terminal is small but has all the essentials for a comfortable wait before your flight.
Shopping
- World Duty Free: A compact store located airside offering tax-free liquor, tobacco, fragrances, and sunglasses.
- WHSmith: Located airside for newspapers, magazines, snacks, and travel accessories.
Bar & Restaurants
- Coastline Café: The main airside eatery, offering hot meals, breakfasts, and grab-and-go options.
- The Bar: Serving draught beers, wines, and spirits with views of the airfield.
- Landside Café: A small coffee shop available before security for meeting friends or waiting for arrivals.
Lounges
- The Executive Lounge: A private space located airside.
- Features: Complimentary soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating away from the main departure hall.
- Access: Can be pre-booked online or paid for at the door (subject to capacity).
Hotels
- Hampton by Hilton: Located roughly 1-2 miles away (near Exeter Business Park).
- Holiday Inn Express: Situated near the M5 Junction 29.
- Travelodge: Located at Exeter M5 Services nearby.
- Fair Oak House: An on-site guest house located within walking distance of the terminal.
Special Assistance
- Assistance Services: Dedicated staff are available to assist passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) from the car park to the aircraft seat.
- Sunflower Lanyard: The airport supports the Hidden Disabilities scheme.
Airport Security (Liquid Rules)
Important for 2026: Exeter Airport's liquid rules may vary with the specific scanner technology in use when you travel, unlike some larger UK airports.
- Standard Rule: As of early 2026, passengers should be prepared to follow the standard 100ml liquid limit. Liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less and fit into a single transparent 1-litre plastic bag.
- Electronics: Laptops and tablets must typically be removed from hand luggage for screening.
FastTrack Security
- Service: A dedicated lane to bypass the main queue.
- Booking: Available to pre-book online for approximately £5.00 per person.
World Duty Free
- Reserve & Collect: Available for passengers who wish to browse online and collect their shopping at the airport.
FAQs
How far is Exeter Airport from the city centre?
The airport is approximately 5 miles (8 km) east of Exeter city centre. It takes about 15-20 minutes by car or 30-40 minutes by bus.
Is there a smoking area at Exeter Airport?
Yes. There is a smoking shelter outside the terminal (landside). Once you pass through security, there are no smoking facilities or outdoor terraces available.
Does Exeter Airport have a train station?
No. The nearest stations are Exeter St Davids (main hub) and Pinhoe. You must connect via bus or taxi.
Can I drop off for free at Exeter Airport?
Yes. You can use Car Park 4 for free drop-off and pick-up for up to 30 minutes. It is about an 8-10 minute walk to the terminal.
What airlines fly from Exeter?
The main airlines are TUI, Ryanair, Loganair, Aer Lingus, and Blue Islands.
Is there a lounge at Exeter Airport?
Yes, the Executive Lounge is available airside for a fee, offering complimentary drinks and snacks.
How much is parking at Exeter Airport?
Turn-up prices are higher, but pre-booking via SaveOnPark can secure Long Stay parking for competitive weekly rates. Car Park 4 is generally the cheapest on-site option.
What are the check-in times for TUI at Exeter?
TUI recommends arriving 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure time. Bag drop desks usually close 40-45 minutes before the flight.
Does Exeter Airport close at night?
The terminal building typically closes to the public overnight after the last flight arrives and reopens roughly 2 hours before the first morning departure (usually around 04:00 - 05:00 AM).
