Cheap Flights to Thurso

Popular airlines to Thurso

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What you need to know for your flight to Thurso

Flights to Thurso at a glance

Flying to Thurso is easy—select from a range of options including full-service and budget airlines. Compare travel times to find the best fit for your budget and itinerary as you plan to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Discover cheap flights to Thurso that align with your travel needs.

  • Major airports near Thurso: Inverness Airport (INV), Kirkwall Airport (KOI)
  • Closest (typical) airport to Thurso: Kirkwall Airport, KOI (around 33 miles)
  • Flights per week: 160+ flights arriving across Thurso airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Thurso: around 5+ carriers

Popular airports near Thurso

Thurso is a vibrant city that offers a fantastic blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and family-friendly vacations. Visitors are drawn to its stunning beaches, picturesque scenery, and adventurous spirit, all while benefiting from convenient access through two major airports, including the closest local airport, Wick Airport.

  • Inverness Airport (INV): Situated in Highland, Scotland, approximately 76 miles from Thurso, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking to around 4 cities within the UK and over 15 global destinations. Travelers can opt for an upgrade to business class for enhanced service, depending on the airline and route. Notable carriers include British Airways, American Airlines, and easyJet.
  • Kirkwall Airport (KOI): Located in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, about 33 miles from Thurso, this airport primarily handles domestic flights. The main airline operating here is Loganair, catering to local travelers with convenient service.

Top routes to Thurso

  • London (LGW/LHR/LTN) to Thurso (INV), with one-way flight options from around $40
  • Boston (BOS) to Thurso (INV), with one-way tickets available from around $230
  • New York (JFK) to Thurso (INV), with one-way fares starting at around $210
  • Dallas (DFW) to Thurso (INV), with one-way tickets available from around $280
  • Chicago (ORD) to Thurso (INV), with one-way flights starting at around $280

Cheapest routes to Thurso

  • London (LGW/LHR/LTN) to Thurso (INV), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
  • Belfast (BHD) to Thurso (INV), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $120
  • Edinburgh (EDI) to Thurso (KOI), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $180
  • New York (JFK) to Thurso (INV), with low one-way fares from around $210
  • Denver (DEN) to Thurso (INV), with budget one-way fares from around $220

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

Top airlines with flights to Thurso

  • British Airways: Operating flights to Inverness Airport (INV), this carrier represents roughly 56% of arrivals in Thurso. Expect average one-way fares around $370, with the potential for business class service on select routes.
  • American Airlines: This airline services Inverness Airport (INV) and is responsible for about 16% of Thurso's arrivals. The typical one-way fare hovers around $430.
  • easyJet: Flying into Inverness Airport (INV), easyJet accounts for approximately 13% of arrivals to Thurso. Average one-way fares are quite budget-friendly, costing around $130.
  • Loganair: With flights to both Kirkwall Airport (KOI) and Inverness Airport (INV), Loganair makes up about 5% of Thurso's arrivals. One-way fares average around $220.
  • Virgin Atlantic: Providing service to Inverness Airport (INV), Virgin Atlantic contributes roughly 4% of arrivals to Thurso. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of around $440.

Best time to fly to Thurso

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Thurso are April, May, and August, when peak temperatures in Thurso can reach up to 55.8°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 45.3°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $199), roughly 38% cheaper than the yearly average.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$310
February40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLow$312
March42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$333
April44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$319
May48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$322
June52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$445
July55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$402
August55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHigh$368
September53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$290
October49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$294
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLow$199
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLow$261

*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 Thurso

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Thurso 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 Thurso 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 Thurso flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Thurso

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

  • Public transportation: From Inverness Airport, travelers will find key transport links nearby. Inverness Airport Bus Station, located about 0.1 miles from the airport, is easily accessible on foot, while Inverness Airport Train Station, a train station, is about 0.7 miles away, also within walking distance. For those needing a seaport, Culloden Seaport is approximately 7.3 miles from the airport, best reached by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Thurso, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Thurso is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Thurso 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 Thurso

  • Bettyhill: Nestled in the area of Thurso, Bettyhill is a charming village perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking hiking trails and eco-friendly tours, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Key highlights include the stunning Farr Beach, great for a beach getaway, and the Strathnaver Museum, where you can delve into local history. For those seeking adventure, Sgeir Bhagain island offers outdoor activities and scenic beach experiences.
  • Portskerra: Located in the area of Thurso, Portskerra is a quaint village that invites families and eco-conscious travelers to explore its natural beauty. The area features picturesque parks and intriguing caves. Notable attractions include Strathy Bay, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor pursuits, and Lochan na Ceardaich, a romantic lake perfect for serene moments. Sgeir an Eilean island is another gem for those looking to enjoy outdoor and beach activities.
  • Scrabster: Scrabster is located in the area of Thurso and offers a delightful blend of outdoor, cultural, and beach experiences. This village is home to a marina and captivating architecture, including a notable castle. Visitors can unwind at Dunnet Bay Beach, an excellent spot for a relaxing beach day, or take in the scenic views from Holburn Head. For a touch of education, the UHI North Highland - Environmental Research Institute provides insights into environmental studies and research.

Tips for short-haul flights to Thurso

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, it’s often more cost-effective to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits thoughtfully. This approach also allows you to avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Make sure to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Thurso

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

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat can greatly enhance your comfort. Full-service airlines often provide free seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection 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, explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free and accessible Wi-Fi.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to rest or stay awake during the flight based on the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Thurso?
Plan your trip for if you want to get a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Thurso. If possible, avoid traveling during busy periods such as public holidays or major events.
Which US cities fly direct to Thurso?
If you'd rather fly to Thurso directly, check out all the options by selecting "Direct flights only" when searching for departures on Expedia.
How to find a cheap flight to Thurso?
Book in advance to score cheap flights to Thurso. Also, consider visiting during off-season months like January and February. If you leave on a Thursday, you can save an average of 16% compared to those departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and set up a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll send you a notification when fares change.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Thurso?
Being flexible with your travel plans may help you to find last-minute deals on cheap flights to Thurso. To view all the available options, consider exploring different ticket types, tweaking your Thurso vacation dates, jetting out of an alternative airport or going with another airline.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Thurso?
Secure your flight to Thurso two to four months ahead if you're taking off from an international destination. For domestic travel, the timeframe is around 28 days in advance. Lower prices and a wider variety of travel dates, schedules and seating options are some of the great reasons to book early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Thurso?
You can save an average of 8% if you buy tickets on a Sunday rather than Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to getting a cheap flight to Thurso, timing makes a difference.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Where do you fly into Thurso?
When flying to Thurso, the main airport to touch down at is Wick Airport (WIC). You can also head for nearby hubs like Kirkwall Airport (KOI), Flotta Isle (FLH) or Eday (EOI). Another good option worth keeping in mind when you fly to Thurso is Stronsay (SOY).
How far is the airport from central Thurso?
If you're landing at Wick Airport (WIC), you'll be around 19 mi southeast of central Thurso.
Can I save money by booking a Thurso trip package?
Bundle your flight and hotel and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better yet, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your Thurso flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's a breeze to organize all your Thurso travel plans in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Thurso?
You can often change or cancel your flight to Thurso within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued credit for a future trip in place of a direct refund. Remember to check the airline's terms of service in your itinerary for specific details. You can use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters during your search to secure cheap flights to Thurso with flexible change policies. To learn more, browse our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Thurso
Destination airport IATA code
FLH

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