$582 Cheap Flights to Islay Island

Flights to Islay Island at a glance

Traveling to Islay Island is easy—simply choose from full-service or budget airlines, compare travel times, and select the best fit for your budget and itinerary. With various options available, you'll be well on your way to exploring the island's renowned attractions and charming neighborhoods.

• Major airports in and around Islay Island: George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD), Belfast International Airport (BFS), Islay Airport (ILY)
• Closest airport to Islay Island: Islay Airport, ILY (within Islay Island)
• Flights per week: 210+ flights arriving across Islay Island airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Islay Island: around 5+ carriers

Popular airports in and around Islay Island

Islay Island is a charming destination known for its romantic ambiance, vibrant entertainment, rich culture, and stunning outdoor scenery. Travelers flock to Islay for these experiences, making it a perfect spot for vacations. Accessing this picturesque island is convenient, with three major airports, including Glasgow Airport, offering various options for one-way flights to Islay.

• George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD): Situated in County Down, Northern Ireland, approximately 79 miles from Islay Island, this airport offers a mix of domestic and international flights. It connects to around 8 domestic locations and over 10 international spots. Travelers can opt for business class for enhanced service, depending on their chosen routes and airlines, including major carriers like British Airways, Aer Lingus, and American Airlines.
• Belfast International Airport (BFS): Found in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, roughly 75 miles from Islay Island, this airport handles both domestic and international flights. It links to about 7 domestic cities and 1 international destination. Notable airlines serving this airport include easyJet and Ryanair.
• Islay Airport (ILY): Located in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, this airport operates domestic flights exclusively. The primary airline servicing this location is Loganair, catering to travelers heading to and from the region.

Top routes to Islay Island

• London (LGW/LHR/LCY/STN) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS), with one-way flight options from around $25
• Edinburgh (EDI) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS), with one-way flight options from around $25
• Glasgow (GLA) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS/ILY), with one-way tickets available from around $40
• Manchester (MAN) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS), with one-way tickets available from around $25
• Inverness (INV) to Islay Island (BHD), with one-way fares starting at around $100

Cheapest routes to Islay Island

• London (LGW/LHR/LCY/STN) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS), with budget one-way fares from around $25
• Edinburgh (EDI) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS), with cheap one-way fares from around $25
• Manchester (MAN) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $25
• Glasgow (GLA) to Islay Island (BHD/BFS/ILY), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
• Birmingham (BHX) to Islay Island (BHD), with affordable one-way prices from around $45

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Islay Island

• British Airways: Operating flights to George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD), this carrier represents about 36% of arrivals to Islay Island. The typical one-way fare hovers around $370, with a premium cabin option that may include business class depending on the specific route.
• easyJet: This airline provides service to both George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) and Belfast International Airport (BFS), accounting for roughly 21% of arrivals to Islay Island. The average one-way fare is approximately $110.
• Aer Lingus: Offering flights to George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD), Aer Lingus makes up around 16% of arrivals to Islay Island. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $160.
• Ryanair: This airline flies into Belfast International Airport (BFS) and is responsible for around 13% of arrivals to Islay Island. The average one-way fare is quite economical, at approximately $40.
• American Airlines: Providing service to George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD), American Airlines accounts for roughly 10% of arrivals to Islay Island. The average one-way fare is about $490.

Best time to fly to Islay Island

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Islay Island are March, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Islay Island can reach up to 57.7°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 48.7°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $152, roughly 24% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? April offers an average one-way fare of around $166, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Islay Island

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Islay Island is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Islay Island hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Islay Island flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Islay Island

Islay Island welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Islay Island efficiently:

• Public transportation: From George Best Belfast City Airport, the Seaport, a seaport, is located about 0.1 miles away, while Sydenham Station, a train station, is about 0.5 miles away, providing convenient access for travelers looking to explore the area.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Islay Island, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Islay Island is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Islay Island on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Islay Island

• Port Ellen: Port Ellen is located in the area of Islay Island, offering a delightful blend of romance, entertainment, and cultural experiences. This charming village is a gateway to stunning attractions such as the serene White Hart Beach and the scenic Ardmore Islands, perfect for sunbathing and outdoor adventures. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the historic Kildalton Chapel, adding a rich layer to your visit. With easy access to the ferry and nearby museums, Port Ellen is an inviting destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
• Lagavulin: Lagavulin is located in the area of Islay Island and is renowned for its captivating atmosphere, making it ideal for romantic getaways and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque White Hart Beach, a lovely spot for a beach vacation, or venture to the Ardmore Islands for outdoor exploration. The village is home to charming stores and is conveniently close to local museums, allowing travelers to dive into the region's rich heritage while enjoying its serene surroundings.
• Bowmore: Bowmore is located in the area of Islay Island, known for its vibrant culture and historic charm. It offers a wonderful mix of entertainment, romance, and culture. Key highlights include the Museum of Islay Life, which delves into the island's history, and the Islay Natural History Centre, perfect for eco-friendly travelers. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Eilean Mor provides a stunning backdrop for exploration. Bowmore’s combination of attractions and picturesque landscapes makes it a memorable stop on your Islay journey.

Tips for short-haul flights to Islay Island

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also spares you from waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself engaged, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Be sure to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Islay Island

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may provide the option to select seats even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to get to the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin synchronizing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Islay Island

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Islay Island on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

March is the cheapest month to fly to Islay Island. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Islay Island. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Islay Island, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Islay Island

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Islay Island in 2026 starts from $1,097, while one-way tickets start from from $582. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Islay Island. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Islay Island

Aer Lingus, British Airways are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Islay Island. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Islay Island and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Islay Island, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Islay Island. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Islay Island plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Islay Island

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Islay Island.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Islay Island are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Islay Island. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Islay Island for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Islay Island. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Islay Island flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Islay Island. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.