Cambridge international airport – flights and getting there
Cambridge is well known for its excellent transport links. From trains and planes to bikes and buses, residents of the city have a great choice of connections whether they’re travelling near or far.
For international students, business people and holidaymakers, the airport is probably the most important piece of local transport infrastructure. Located just outside the city, it’s within easy reach of the university, the city centre and many of Cambridge’s most popular attractions. To help you plan your trip, we’re taking a look at flights to Cambridge and transport options for people living in the city.
Cambridge International Airport
First opened way back in 1938, Cambridge International Airport played an important role in the local area for decades. For years, the airport was home to the Cambridge University Air Squadron and also served private aircraft travelling to the region.
In the early 2000s, operations at the airport were stepped up and, in 2012, the airport began offering charter flights to Italy as well as regular flights to the Channel Islands.
By 2015, a new service to Gothenburg departed daily from Cambridge International with a number of other international destinations available on stopping services via Manchester.
However, in 2016, it was announced that passenger services would cease operating from the airport. Today, there are no services departing Cambridge for which members of the public can buy tickets.
Alternative airports near Cambridge
Luckily for those travelling to Cambridge, there are a number of other airports in the surrounding area. If you’re flying to the city from Europe or another short-haul destination, Stansted Airport is a good option. As @VisitCambs says, “London Stansted is located just 30 miles to the South of the city, with easy access by train, coach, or car (M11).”
In fact, you can reach Stansted in just 33 minutes by train or 40 minutes by car, making it incredibly easy to catch your connecting flight from the airport.
Alternatively, you can travel to Birmingham International, Norwich International or London Luton Airports. If you’re flying long haul, you’ll probably arrive at London Heathrow, London Gatwick, or Manchester Airport, all of which are within easy reach of Cambridge by car or public transport.
London Heathrow offers the widest choice of international flights out of the three, with regular services departing for destinations all over the world.
Although you may no longer be able to fly direct to Cambridge itself, there is still a great choice of transport links in the area. To find out more about travelling to and around the city, or to begin your search for accommodation in Cambridge, explore our site or get in touch with a member of our team.