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Southampton Airport (SOU) Guide

Southampton Airport

Southampton Airport Overview

Located in the heart of Hampshire, Southampton Airport (IATA: SOU, ICAO: EGHI) serves as a crucial international gateway spanning both Eastleigh and Southampton in the United Kingdom. Positioned just 6.5 kilometres (4.0 miles) to the north-north-east of central Southampton, this airport offers convenient access for travellers in the region.

In the year 2016, Southampton Airport expertly handled nearly two million passengers, marking an impressive 8.8% increase compared to the previous year, solidifying its status as the 18th busiest airport in the United Kingdom. The airport’s ownership and operational responsibilities fall under AGS Airports, a company that also manages Glasgow and Aberdeen Airports.

Leading up to March 2020, an overwhelming 95% of flights departing from Southampton were managed by Flybe, a prominent airline. However, on the 5th of March 2020, Flybe faced financial difficulties and eventually went into administration, leading to the cancellation of all its flights. In a remarkable turn of events, Flybe was later acquired and relaunched, with plans to recommence services at Southampton Airport beginning on the 23rd of July 2022.

Unfortunately, the reincarnated Flybe faced challenges and ultimately ceased its operations just nine months after its relaunch.

Terminal

Southampton Airport Terminal Map
Southampton Airport is home to a solitary terminal, which accommodates a dozen stands, all notably lacking in jet bridges. Inside the terminal, you’ll discover a set of thirteen check-in desks to facilitate your journey.

The terminal further provides an array of facilities, including coffee shops, well-appointed bars, a stationery store for your convenience, a duty-free shop for tax-free shopping, and an elevated lounge situated on the upper floor, offering added comfort and relaxation.

Southampton Airport currently has one asphalt runway, 02/20, with Instrument Landing System on runway 20 and VOR/DME and NDB on runway 02. It operates between 06:00 and 23:00, with up to 10 monthly flights during restricted hours.

Southampton Airport Arrivals

A user-friendly Southampton arrivals online flight board provides real-time information on incoming flights. Passengers and those awaiting loved ones can conveniently access this digital resource to stay informed.

This digital flight arrivals Southampton board displays essential details, including the scheduled arrival time, flight’s origin, IATA code, flight number, airline, and current flight status. It serves as a valuable tool for tracking incoming flights, enabling passengers to plan their arrivals or pickups effectively.

For instance, if you’re expecting a friend arriving from Amsterdam, you can swiftly locate their flight by using the IATA code SOU for Southampton Airport. The flight number, airline name, and real-time status keep you updated on whether the flight is on schedule, delayed, or has already landed.

This online Southampton flight arrivals board caters to a range of needs, whether you’re a passenger eager to know when to expect your flight or someone waiting at the airport to greet arrivals. Southampton Airport’s online flight board ensures that accurate and timely information is just a click away, making your travel experience more convenient and efficient.

Tips

Southampton Airport’s Arrivals Hall leads to the airport’s main public area, featuring amenities like Costa Coffee, The Globe Bar and Restaurant, WHSmith, and a taxi desk.

Brexit has brought some changes to arrivals Southampton Airport:

  • EU Lane Replaced: The EU lane has been replaced with “goods to declare” or “nothing to declare” lanes.
  • ID Checks for EU Citizens: EU citizens still undergo ID checks and may be asked about their journey’s purpose.
  • Visa Requirement: Non-UK resident EU citizens might need a “permitted paid engagement” visa for work-related visits.

Travellers should stay updated on evolving travel regulations.

Southampton Airport Departures

Flight departures Southampton offer a gateway to a wide range of destinations, combining convenience and efficiency for travellers. Southampton Airport is known for its streamlined departure process, ensuring passengers can embark on their journeys with ease.

As you approach the departure area, you’ll find a bustling hub of activity. The airport features a variety of amenities and services to enhance the pre-flight experience. Passengers can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink at the airport’s dining establishments, such as The Globe Bar and Restaurant, or grab some last-minute travel essentials at WHSmith. Additionally, there’s a dedicated taxi desk for those seeking transportation options.

One of the key features that contributes to the smooth departure experience is the real-time flight information available to passengers.

The Southampton departures flight board is a valuable tool for travellers and those seeing off loved ones. It provides real-time information to ensure a seamless departure experience, with updates available every day.

Southampton airport arrivals and departures
Upon accessing the Southampton Airport live departures board, passengers and well-wishers are greeted with a comprehensive display of essential details. This includes the scheduled departure time, destination airport, IATA code, flight number, airline name, and the current flight status. This wealth of information empowers travellers to plan their departures with precision, while those saying goodbye can stay updated on their loved one’s journey.

For instance, the flight number and airline name clarify your specific flight, and the real-time status updates indicate whether your departure is on schedule or facing any delays.

Southampton flight departures online board caters to various needs, whether you’re a passenger eager to commence your journey or someone bidding farewell. With accurate and up-to-the-minute information available at your fingertips and updates provided daily, navigating your departure from Southampton Airport is made convenient and stress-free.

Airport Southampton Flight Tracker

Southampton Airport Destinations

So, where does Southampton Airport fly to? Southampton Airport connects travellers to a diverse range of destinations through various reputable airlines. Whether you’re seeking business connections or planning your next vacation, this table provides an overview of the flights from Southampton served by different airlines. From the bustling cities of Belfast and Dublin to the serene islands of Alderney and Guernsey, and from cultural hubs like Amsterdam to popular seasonal destinations, Southampton Airport offers a gateway to a wide array of locations. Whether you’re jetting off for work or leisure, this table offers a quick reference guide to help you plan your journey from Southampton Airport with ease.

Airlines Destinations from Southampton Airport
Aer Lingus Belfast–City, Dublin
Aurigny Alderney, Guernsey
Blue Islands Guernsey, Jersey
British Airways Seasonal: Alicante, Bergerac, Chambéry, Dublin, Edinburgh, Faro, Limoges, Málaga, Palma de Mallorca
Eastern Airways Paris–Orly
easyJet Belfast–International, Glasgow
Seasonal: Geneva
KLM Amsterdam
Loganair Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle upon Tyne, Stornoway

Southampton Airport Lounge

Southampton Airport Lounge: Spitfire Lounge
The Southampton Airport lounge — Spitfire Lounge — offers exceptional value for visitors, providing them with a chance to indulge in a complimentary Breakfast or All Day Menu, accompanied by a choice of hot beverages, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages.

The lounge serves as a tranquil retreat away from the airport’s bustling environment, supplying high-speed WiFi for work or leisure activities such as television viewing.

Operating hours (Saturdays and Sundays only):

  • Saturday: 05:00 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Sunday: 05:00 AM – 2:00 PM

The Spitfire Lounge is located post-security and is exclusively accessible for departing passengers. Visitors can pre-book The Spitfire Lounge online up to 30 minutes before their scheduled arrival time.

Access to the Southampton Airport lounge is contingent on the possession of a valid boarding pass. It should be noted that the lounge cannot be accessed prior to completing the check-in process.

Southampton Airport Parking

There is a variety of parking Southampton Airport options designed to ensure your travel experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re embarking on a short weekend getaway or an extended international trip, you’ll find a parking solution that suits your requirements.

Southampton Airport Parking Short Stay

For travellers seeking immediate proximity to the terminal, Southampton Airport’s Short Stay car parking is an ideal choice, providing a mere 1 to 3-minute walk to your departure gate.

To maximize cost savings on official Short Stay parking at Southampton Airport, passengers can opt for the Short Stay season ticket program, featuring three distinct options. Choose according to your travel preferences—a month, quarter, or a full year—and enjoy the flexibility to access the parking facility as needed.

Rest assured, Southampton Airport prioritizes the safety and security of your vehicle. The car parking Southampton Airport options are meticulously monitored by CCTV surveillance, complemented by routine security patrols, ensuring the utmost protection for your vehicle during your absence.

Duration Price
Up to 1 hour £12.00
Up to 90 minutes £15.00
Up to 4 hours £22.00
Up to 24 hours £45.00
Up to 2 days £90.00
Up to 3 days £135.00
Up to 4 days £180.00

Southampton Airport Priority Parking

Southampton Airport’s Priority Parking service offers travellers unparalleled convenience, located just a one-minute walk from the terminal on the ground floor. Safety is a top priority, with comprehensive security measures including constant CCTV surveillance and regular patrols. Covered parking bays ensure your vehicle remains sheltered from the elements during your journey. Notably, the Priority Parking bays are wider than standard ones, providing ample space for parking and easy access to your car. Booking in advance this Southampton airport car parking ensures automatic access, simplifying your travel plans. Alternatively, you can choose Priority Parking on the day of departure by following clear signage upon arrival at the airport.

Duration Price
24 hours £55.00
Additional 24 hours (or part thereof) £55.00

Southampton Airport Parking Long Stay

Southampton Airport parking long stay is temporarily closed. Located at the far end of the main airport road, a shuttle bus service connects it to the terminal, taking approximately five minutes with buses running every ten to twelve minutes, 24/7. Security is a top priority with CCTV monitoring and regular patrols across the airport’s car parks to ensure your vehicle’s safety.

Duration Price
1 Day £28.00
2 Days £40.00
3 Days £50.00
Per additional 24 hours or part thereof +£14.00

Southampton Airport Drop Off and Pick Up

The Express Drop-Off and Southampton Airport pick up services at the airport are conveniently situated on the ground floor, beneath the short-stay car park, offering travellers a covered and easily accessible option. This service is available at a cost of £6, providing a 20-minute parking allowance.

For those driving electric vehicles, there’s a special benefit. Electric vehicle users can access the pick-up and drop-off facility directly opposite the terminal free of charge for the first 20 minutes.

How to Get To and From Airport Southampton

By Car

Getting to Southampton Airport is a straightforward journey with easy access to major travel routes. The airport is located to the north of Southampton, conveniently situated just off J5 on the M27 and in close proximity to the M3.

For those utilizing a Sat Nav, input the postcode SO18 2NL, which corresponds to the following latitude/longitude coordinates: 50:57:01N (50.95039); 1:21:42W (-1.36155). Alternatively, you can plan your route to the airport using Google Maps.

If you are driving from central Southampton, simply take the A335 and follow the clearly marked signposts directing you to the airport.

By Bus

SOU provides local and regional airport transfers Southampton. Additionally, passengers have the convenient option of boarding buses at the nearby Southampton Airport Parkway train station. The journey to the city centre typically spans 35-40 minutes.

Local Bus Operators

  • UNI-LINK: UNI-LINK operates the U1C bus service, linking Southampton Airport, Southampton University, the city centre, and the Waterfront. Additionally, the U1A service operates in the opposite direction, from the city to the airport.
  • XELABUS: The X4 route connects Eastleigh and Hedge End, making stops at Southampton Airport Parkway for added convenience.

By Taxi to Southampton Airport

The designated taxi provider for Southampton Airport can be found opposite the Arrivals Hall near the exit. Southampton Council issues licenses for two types of vehicles: Hackney Carriages, commonly known as Southampton Airport taxis, which are predominantly white, and Private Hire vehicles, often referred to as minicabs, which can be any colour other than white. Both types of vehicles prominently display windscreen and rear plate badges to signify their authorized status. It’s important to note that minicabs must be pre-booked.

While Southampton Airport does not have an official meeting point, popular unofficial gathering spots include the Airport Help point, the Tourist Information Point, and the Aura cafe.

Securing a Southampton Airport taxi at the designated taxi rank without prior arrangement at the adjacent taxi booking desk can be challenging. This booking desk is conveniently situated right beside the terminal entrance. ‘Checker Cars’ primarily utilize this taxi rank; however, other taxi companies are permitted to pick up and drop off passengers if the taxi service has been pre-booked. The taxi rank itself is positioned directly outside the terminal exit.

Car Hire Southampton Airport

Travellers can access car rental Southampton Airport services in various destinations through a selection of reputable providers. These options enable individuals to secure the best car hire deal for their travel needs.

Here are the Southampton Airport car hire providers available:

Sixt

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 18:00 – 20:00
  • Saturday – Sunday: 08:00 – 16:00

Avis / Budget

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 07:30 – 20:00
  • Saturday: 08:30 – 14:00
  • Sunday: 12:30 – 20:00

Enterprise / National / Alamo

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – Sunday: 08:00 – 20:00

Europcar

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 08:00 – 20:00

Additional Information on Southampton Airport

The year of foundation: 1932
Number of terminals: 1
Southampton Time Zone: GMT+1
Southampton Airport Coordinates: 50.9510° N, 1.3570° W
Location: situated in Eastleigh and Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom.
Southampton Airport Address: Southampton SO18 2NL, United Kingdom
Southampton Airport Postcode: SO18 2NL
Southampton Airport Code: SOU, EGHI
Contacts: +44 344 481 7777
Website: www.southamptonairport.com

Southampton Airport Map

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