Around the world in minutes: 10 shortest commercial flights you must know about
Westray to Papa Westray, Scotland
At just 2.73 km, this Loganair flight lasts under two minutes. It connects the Orkney Islands, serving as a lifeline for locals needing quick inter-island transport.
Karpathos to Kasos, Greece
Olympic Air operates this 20-minute hop between Dodecanese islands. Covering only 20 km, it provides essential regional connectivity for residents and visiting tourists in the Aegean.
Connemara to Inis Mor, Ireland
Aer Arann Islands runs this 10-minute flight over Galway Bay. Covering around 17.7 km, it links mainland Ireland to the Aran Islands which is vital for locals and tourists.
St Maarten to Anguilla, Caribbean
Covering only eight minutes of flying time, this short hop connects Princess Juliana International Airport with Clayton J Lloyd Airport. This is popular with vacationers heading to Anguilla’s beaches.
Sint Maarten to Saint Barthelemy
Winair operates this 10-minute Caribbean shuttle. The thrilling approach into Gustaf III Airport on St Barts makes it a popular choice for both leisure travellers and aviation enthusiasts.
Tromso to Sorkjosen, Norway
A Wideroe flight lasting about 15 minutes covers 38 km. It’s part of Norway’s extensive short-haul network serving remote Arctic communities across fjords and mountains.
Saba to St Eustatius, Caribbean Netherlands
Winair runs this 15-minute flight, just 19.3 km in distance. The route is famous for Saba’s ultra-short runway, considered one of the world’s most challenging.
Kinmen to Xiamen, Taiwan–China
This cross-strait service is only 9.65 km. Actual flying takes 10 minutes, but geopolitical importance makes it a crucial regional connection between Taiwan’s Kinmen Island and mainland China.
Kegata to Apowo, Papua New Guinea
Mission Aviation Fellowship operates this 12-minute flight. Covering under 16 km, it traverses dense jungles and rugged terrain, where road travel is impossible, serving isolated villages.
Caye Caulker to Belize City, Belize
Tropic Air runs this 10-minute service across 33.7 km. It connects the small Caribbean island with mainland Belize, saving travellers a long boat ride across open water.