Air travel is often associated with long-haul journeys across continents, but there are numerous commercial flights that cover surprisingly short distances. These short flights, including the shortest commercial flight in the world, offer unique travel experiences and serve crucial roles in connecting remote areas.
This blog post explores some of the shortest commercial flights globally, the reasons for their existence, and their importance in the aviation industry.
What Defines a Short Commercial Flight?
A short commercial flight is typically defined as a scheduled passenger flight that covers a distance of less than 100 kilometers (62 miles). These commercial flights are essential for connecting remote locations, often where alternative transport options are limited or time-consuming. They are also known as “milk runs,” a term used for flights that make multiple stops, much like a delivery route.
Benefits of Short Flights
Short flights provide numerous benefits, including time savings for passengers, convenience for residents of remote areas, and economic boosts to local tourism and commerce. They are particularly important for island communities and regions with challenging terrain, where air travel can be the most efficient or only viable option.
Notable Shortest Commercial Flights Around the World
1. Westray to Papa Westray (Scotland):
The flight between the islands of Westray and Papa Westray in the Orkney Islands covers just 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers). The journey, operated by the Scottish regional airline Loganair, takes about 90 seconds, making it the shortest commercial flight in the world.
This flight connects the small island communities, providing essential access for residents and tourists. The flight operated by Loganair serves as a vital link, given the limited alternative transport options.
Besides being the shortest commercial flight, the route offers a quick yet scenic view of the rugged Scottish landscape and the North Sea. It’s a practical necessity for the islands’ residents and an intriguing experience for aviation enthusiasts.
2. St. Gallen-Altenrhein to Friedrichshafen (Switzerland-Germany):
This short international flight spans about 20 kilometers (12 miles), taking around 8 minutes. It was previously operated by People’s Viennaline.
The flight provided a fast connection across Lake Constance, significantly reducing travel time compared to a lengthy car journey around the lake. It facilitated quick cross-border travel for business and leisure.
As an international airport route, it highlighted the ease of air travel between neighboring countries, emphasizing the practical role of short flights in regional connectivity.
3. Karpathos to Kasos (Greece):
This flight covers approximately 19 kilometers (12 miles) in about 5 minutes, connecting the Greek islands of Karpathos and Kasos.
Operated by Olympic Air, this route is crucial for the local population and tourists, providing a quick alternative to ferry services.
The flight offers a brief but beautiful view of the Aegean Sea, showcasing the unique geographical layout of the Greek islands.
4. Minamidaito to Kitadaito (Japan):
This route in Okinawa Prefecture is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) long, with a flight time of roughly 3 minutes.
Ryukyu Air Commuter operates this flight, providing essential connectivity between the two remote islands, where ferry services are limited.
The flight is critical for maintaining the islands’ social and economic connections, especially important during emergencies or for transporting goods.
5. Hoolehua to Kalaupapa (Hawaii, USA):
Covering approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles), this flight takes about 10 minutes and connects the Hawaiian islands of Molokai.
Mokulele Airlines operates this route, providing access to the remote Kalaupapa peninsula, known for its historical significance and challenging access.
The flight offers stunning views of Hawaii’s lush landscapes and serves as a crucial link for residents and visitors to the isolated area.
6. Sint Eustatius to Saba (Caribbean Netherlands):
This flight covers around 31 kilometers (19 miles) in about 12 minutes, connecting two islands in the Caribbean.
Operated by Winair, the route is vital for interisland travel in the Caribbean, supporting both residents and tourists.
The flight offers a glimpse of the Caribbean’s beautiful turquoise waters and lush island landscapes.
7. Saipan to Tinian (Northern Mariana Islands):
This route spans approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) with a flight time of around 10 minutes.
Operated by Star Marianas Air, the flight is crucial for residents and tourists, providing a quick connection between the islands.
Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, making it a scenic and practical route.
The Importance and Challenges of Operating Short Flights
Short flights face unique operational challenges, including the economic viability of operating such brief routes. Airlines must consider factors like fuel efficiency, turnaround times, and the cost-effectiveness of maintaining frequent short-distance services.
Why These Flights Are Essential?
Despite these challenges, short flights are essential for providing accessibility to remote areas, maintaining social and economic ties, and ensuring timely transport for medical or emergency needs. They play a critical role in the daily lives of many people, often serving as the most practical or only travel option.
Conclusion
Short commercial flights offer more than just convenience—they are lifelines for many communities. These flights showcase the versatility and necessity of air travel in connecting the world’s most remote regions. Whether for practical necessity or the unique experience, short flights are an essential component of global aviation.
FAQs
What qualifies a commercial flight as one of the shortest in the world?
A commercial flight is considered “one of the shortest” when it carries paying passengers over a very small distance—often just a few minutes of airborne time. These flights typically exist because they connect remote communities, cross water channels, or serve regions where road travel is impractical.
Why do such short commercial flights exist if the distance can be traveled by boat or car?
Many ultra-short routes exist out of necessity. Some islands, remote towns, or isolated regions rely on air service year-round due to weather challenges, geography, or the absence of reliable ground connections. In these places, short flights can be faster, safer, and more dependable than sea or road travel.
Are the world’s shortest flights usually more expensive than longer routes?
Not always. Despite their tiny distances, these flights often remain reasonably priced because they serve local residents rather than tourists. Their main purpose is transportation rather than sightseeing, so airlines usually keep fares accessible to the communities that depend on them.
What type of aircraft typically operate the shortest commercial flights?
Short commercial routes are commonly flown using small propeller-driven aircraft designed for quick takeoffs, short runways, and frequent legs. These planes are efficient for low passenger numbers and operate well in rugged or remote environments where larger aircraft cannot land.
Do passengers actually get a full flight experience on such short routes?
The experience is brief but memorable. There’s usually no time for inflight service, but passengers enjoy a unique perspective—fast takeoff, a quick climb, and almost immediate descent. For aviation fans, it’s a fun and unusual experience that feels more like a scenic hop than a traditional flight.
Are ultra-short commercial flights considered safe?
Yes. These flights follow the same safety regulations as any other commercial route. Pilots flying these sectors are highly familiar with local terrain and weather patterns, and the short distances often mean shorter exposure to turbulent conditions or extended flight risks.
Are ultra-short commercial flights becoming less common with new transport options?
Not necessarily. While some regions are building better ports or improving roadways, short commercial flights remain essential in many isolated areas. As long as communities need dependable year-round access—and geography works against ground travel—these routes will continue to exist.