Blackpool Airport – Your Gateway to The 154th Open

Private, charter and business aviation access for Royal Birkdale
Sunday 12 – Sunday 19 July 2026

Blackpool Airport is a convenient and uncongested gateway for private and charter aircraft flying into the North West for The 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.

With dedicated aircraft handling through Hangar 3 FBO, fast ground transfers and flexible operating arrangements, Blackpool Airport is ideally positioned to support operators, brokers and passengers during the Open Championship week.

The 154th Open Championship will be held at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Southport, from Sunday 12 July to Sunday 19 July 2026. The event is expected to attract significant international attention, with increased demand for private, business and charter aviation across the region.

Operators are strongly encouraged to plan early to secure parking, handling and ground transport.

Blackpool Airport offers a practical alternative to larger regional airports, providing a smooth and efficient experience for charter and business aviation.

Key benefits include:

  • Corporate friendly airport with minimal congestion
  • Flexible operating hours (subject to PPR)
  • Competitive landing, parking and handling fees
  • Rapid passenger and crew turnaround
  • Easy access to Royal Birkdale and surrounding accommodation
  • Dedicated aircraft handling via Hangar 3

All aircraft handling for Open Championship traffic at Blackpool Airport is provided through Hangar 3, offering a professional, experienced and personalised service for private and charter operators.

Handling services include:

  • Full aircraft handling and coordination
  • Passenger and crew assistance
  • Aircraft parking management
  • Fuel coordination (Jet A-1 and AVGAS)
  • Catering coordination
  • Customs and immigration liaison (by prior arrangement)
  • Ground transport coordination
  • Aircraft cleaning
  • On-airport location at Blackpool Airport
  • Extensive experience supporting charter and VIP operations
  • Dedicated handling support during peak event periods

All operators are requested to contact Hangar 3 directly for handling, fire upgrades, out of hours extensions, fuelling, PPR, landing and parking arrangements.

Airport: Blackpool Airport

ICAO: EGNH

Runways: 1.8 km [SP2] Hard-surface runway suitable for business jets and turboprops

Operating hours: Published hours with extensions available by prior arrangement

PPR / slots: PPR may be required during Open Championship week

Fuel: Jet A-1 and AVGAS available

Customs & immigration: Available with advance notice (international arrivals only)

NOTAMS: Published by ATC / Airport. It is the responsibility of the pilots / operations team to check them.

Full operational details, PPR and requirements will be provided by Hangar 3 upon enquiry.

Royal Birkdale Golf Club is easily accessible from Blackpool Airport.

Ground transport options include:

  • Chauffeur-driven executive vehicles
  • Luxury car services
  • Group transport coordination
  • Helicopter transfers (subject to availability and permissions)

Hangar 3 can assist with coordinating onward transport to Royal Birkdale, hotels and hospitality venues.

The Blackpool and Southport areas offer a wide range of accommodation options for passengers and flight crew, including:

  • Luxury hotels
  • Crew-friendly accommodation
  • Coastal resorts and city-centre options

Handling staff can assist with local information and logistics planning.

If you are not yet flying but are considering chartering an aircraft to attend The 154th Open, Blackpool Airport is well suited for:

  • Individuals and private groups
  • Corporate hospitality and sponsors
  • Media and support teams

A wide range of aircraft types can be accommodated, from light jets to large-cabin and VIP aircraft.

Hangar 3 can assist with coordinating all aspects of charter flights.

Do I need prior permission to land?
PPR may be required during Open Championship week. Early contact is recommended.

Who provides aircraft handling at Blackpool Airport?
All handling is provided by Hangar 3.

Is overnight parking available?
Yes, subject to availability. Parking should be requested well in advance.

Can international arrivals be accommodated?
Yes, with advance notice for customs and immigration arrangements.

How far is Blackpool Airport from Royal Birkdale?
Approximately 40 miles.

Photo courtesy of James Hogg.