Information and Travel Guide for Southampton International Airport
Southampton International Airport (SOU)

Southampton International Airport is a thriving, world-class airport complex, with 12 airlines and tour operators serving 46 destinations located in Europe. Southampton International Airport has won prestigious awards, including the 2008 and 2009 ACI Airport People Award and Business Southampton's 2008 City Champion Award for Innovation. In 2009, this premier airport flew an impressive 1.89 million passengers to many of the top domestic and international destinations.

History

Opened in 1910, Southampton International Airport is a historical landmark that has seen many significant milestones through the years. The airport began serving domestic and international flights in 1918, and in 1993 construction on the new terminal commenced. In 2003, Southampton earned another milestone when it was able to serve 1 million passengers for the entire year. The airport celebrated its 100th year in 2010.

Services and Amenities

Southampton offers a wealth of shopping and dining options, including wireless broadband Internet access in all areas within the airport. Flying is easy at Southampton International Airport, where you can easily purchase travel essentials, a change of clothing, a full breakfast or even just a cup of coffee in between flights. There's Mitchell's Kitchen and Bar, Costa Coffee, World Duty Free and WHSmith, to name a few.

Transportation

Southampton International Airport is easily accessible through private or public transportation, including by bus and coach, taxi, or train. Car hire services are also conveniently available in the airport. Southampton has partnered with reputable car hire companies, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Alamo, National and Enterprise, to provide the best, cost-effective rental services. Online bookings on any of these car hire firms are encouraged.


Security Tips

To get past security faster, Southampton International Airport offers the following security tips:

  • Check your hand luggage for any sharp objects, liquids over 100ml and other forbidden items.
  • The allowable size and number of cabin bags vary from airline to airline, so make sure to check with your airline before travelling.
  • Transparent, resealable bags must be no bigger than 1 litre.
  • Medicines in amounts above 100ml are subject to prior approval from the airline and airport.
Airlines and Destinations

Southampton International Airport serves 46 destinations all over Europe, including Amsterdam, Brussels, Ibiza, Inverness and Paris. The airport is home to 12 different airlines, which include Flybe, Eastern Airways, Thomson Airways and Air France. In addition, Southampton has one runway, 27 facilities for check-in and an extensive car parking area. Private jet flying arrangements may also be arranged through Southampton International Airport. 


Nearby Accommodations

The ideal location of Southampton International Airport makes it easier for travellers and guests to find suitable accommodations within the area. A few of these hotels include Holiday Inn, Hilton Southampton, Highfield House, Holiday Inn Express Southampton, and Best Western Chilworth Manor Hotel. For hotels that offer airport shuttle service, there's Ennios Boutique Hotel, Devonia, and Lainston House Hotel.

Travel Tips

Make sure that you have a valid passport when planning for international travels. In travelling to some countries you may have to ensure that your passport is valid for no less than six months after your planned return. Some countries also require a visa, so make sure you check with your country of destination first, especially when it comes to travel requirements. When it comes to the actual flight, proper hydration and light meals help to ensure comfortable and healthy flying. 

Contact Information

Address: Southampton International Airport, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, UK, SO18 2NL
Number of Terminals: 1
Phone #s: 0844 481 7777
Fax: (0)23 8062 7193
Email: http://www.southamptonairport.com/help/contact-us/feedback
Website: http://www.southamptonairport.com/
Time Zone: GMT (GMT + 1 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)
Location: The airport is located 7km (4 miles) northeast of Southampton
IATA airport code: SOU