Airports Near Cardiff
Looking for the nearest airport to Cardiff? Cardiff is served by a couple of airports located in different directions around the city. With two airports within a 50-mile radius, you still have solid options to choose from. Here's a quick guide to help you find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What Is the Closest Airport to Cardiff?
The closest airport to Cardiff is Cardiff Airport (CWL), a medium-sized airport located approximately 9.1 miles (14.6 km) southwest of the city center. The driving distance is about 12.1 miles (19.4 km), which typically takes around 25 minutes by car.
If you're looking for better connectivity, the nearest major airport is Birmingham Airport (BHX), located about 90.8 miles (146.1 km) northeast of Cardiff in a straight line. The driving distance is around 113.9 miles (183.3 km), with an average travel time of about 2 hours and 17 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
For better flight options, consider London Heathrow Airport (LHR), which offers more connections. It's located 117 miles (188.2 km) east of Cardiff. The driving distance is approximately 137.5 miles (221.3 km), with a typical drive time of 2 hours and 41 minutes.
Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Direct Distance 📏
9.1 miles
14.6 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
12.1 miles
19.4 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
25 min
Direction ➤
Southwest
Bristol Airport (BRS)
Located 21 miles (33.7 km) east of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
21 miles
33.7 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
47.5 miles
76.5 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
1 h 11 min
Direction ➤
East
Nearby airports to Cardiff
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiff Airport | CWL | Cardiff | 9.1 mi (14.6 km) | 12.1 mi (19.4 km) | 25 min | Medium-sized |
| Bristol Airport | BRS | Bristol | 21 mi (33.7 km) | 47.5 mi (76.5 km) | 1 h 11 min | Medium-sized |
| Exeter Airport | EXT | Exeter | 52.5 mi (84.5 km) | 107.6 mi (173.1 km) | 2 h 8 min | Medium-sized |
| RAF Brize Norton | BZZ | Brize Norton | 71 mi (114.2 km) | 92.6 mi (149 km) | 2 h 2 min | Medium-sized |
| Bournemouth Airport | BOH | Bournemouth | 75.5 mi (121.5 km) | 115.3 mi (185.6 km) | 2 h 49 min | Medium-sized |
| Southampton Airport | SOU | Southampton | 87 mi (140 km) | 131.7 mi (211.9 km) | 2 h 37 min | Medium-sized |
| Birmingham Airport | BHX | Birmingham | 90.8 mi (146.1 km) | 113.9 mi (183.3 km) | 2 h 17 min | Large |
| Cornwall Airport Newquay | NQY | Newquay | 106.8 mi (171.8 km) | 191.3 mi (307.9 km) | 3 h 41 min | Medium-sized |
| London Heathrow Airport | LHR | London | 117 mi (188.2 km) | 137.5 mi (221.3 km) | 2 h 41 min | Large |
| Hawarden Airport | CEG | Hawarden | 117.6 mi (189.3 km) | 152 mi (244.5 km) | 3 h 28 min | Medium-sized |
| East Midlands Airport | EMA | Nottingham | 122 mi (196.3 km) | 147.6 mi (237.6 km) | 2 h 54 min | Medium-sized |
| Luton Airport | LTN | London | 123.5 mi (198.8 km) | 165.8 mi (266.9 km) | 3 h 12 min | Large |
| Liverpool John Lennon Airport | LPL | Liverpool | 128.8 mi (207.3 km) | 194.3 mi (312.6 km) | 3 h 50 min | Medium-sized |
| Alderney Airport | ACI | Alderney | 129.7 mi (208.7 km) | 236.9 mi (381.2 km) | 6 h 55 min | Medium-sized |
| London Gatwick Airport | LGW | London | 131.1 mi (211 km) | 166.5 mi (267.9 km) | 3 h 16 min | Large |
| Nottingham Airport | NQT | Nottingham | 133.5 mi (214.8 km) | 162.9 mi (262.2 km) | 3 h 13 min | Medium-sized |
| Anglesey Airport | VLY | Angelsey | 134.9 mi (217.1 km) | 192.5 mi (309.8 km) | 4 h 36 min | Medium-sized |
| Manchester Airport | MAN | Manchester | 135 mi (217.2 km) | 181 mi (291.3 km) | 3 h 30 min | Large |
| London City Airport | LCY | London | 139.2 mi (224 km) | 159.9 mi (257.4 km) | 3 h 38 min | Medium-sized |
| Guernsey Airport | GCI | Guernsey | 143.6 mi (231 km) | 211.9 mi (341 km) | 6 h | Medium-sized |
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to Cardiff, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.