✈️ The World's Shortest Flight Route: Just 57 Seconds!

✈️ The World’s Shortest Flight Route: Just 57 Seconds!

Did you know that the world’s shortest commercial flight takes place over the Orkney Islands in Scotland? This route connects Westray and Papa Westray, two small islands separated by just 1.7 miles. Operated by regional airline Loganair, the flight is so short that in ideal wind conditions it can be completed in an incredible 57 seconds! 🕒

📜 The Story Behind the Route

The route was created to meet the needs of local communities in the Orkney Islands, a remote archipelago made up of over 70 islands. Prior to the implementation of the flight, transport between Westray and Papa Westray was exclusively by boat, which could take hours depending on weather conditions.

In 1967, Loganair began commercial flights, revolutionizing the region’s connectivity. Today, the route is vital for medical, educational and economic services, as well as being a popular tourist attraction.

✈️ Flight Operation

The flight is carried out by Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft, designed to operate on short runways and difficult terrain. This model is perfect for the region, where landing strips are small and often made of grass.

  • Flight duration: Between 57 seconds and 2 minutes, depending on wind.
  • Distance covered: 2.7 km.
  • Average ticket price: Approximately £17 (one way).
  • Airstrip: Both islands have minimal runways, suitable for the BN-2 Islander.

🎥 Want to see the flight?

Watch a video of the full flight on YouTube: The shortes flight in the world. (In Portuguese - Brazil)

🌍 Why is it a global icon?

The Westray – Papa Westray flight has gained worldwide attention not only for its practical utility, but also for attracting aviation enthusiasts who want to experience the shortest flight on the planet. It is considered a challenge to simulate this route accurately in software such as Infinite Flight.

Você pode recriar o voo facilmente no Infinite Flight usando o plano de voo real:

  • ICAO de Westray: EGEW
  • ICAO de Papa Westray: EGEP

📚 Fonts an Links

🚀 Now I challenge you:

👉 Take this flight on Infinite Flight, and tell me about your experience!

6 Likes

Gonna try this 🫡

1 Like

57 seconds is literally insane!