Whether you’re planning a quick European getaway or a longer sunshine break, flights from Norwich Airport can save you time, hassle and long motorway drives.
I recently took a last-minute autumn trip from Norwich Airport. I’ve flown from here a few times over the years – Amsterdam, Ibiza, even a slightly chaotic trip to Sicily – so I was curious to see how it’s changed. Here’s what I found…
Norwich Airport Parking
As someone who lives in Norwich, I opted to take a short cab ride to the airport, which is mega-convenient and cost-effective – especially when you compare it to the price of parking at the major airports.
If you’re not taking a taxi, there are several options for parking at Norwich Airport. The official Norwich Airport car parking is right next to the terminal and easy to access, though you’ll pay a bit more for the convenience.
For a cheaper option, the park and ride Norwich Airport service is handy and reliable. If you’re planning to leave your car for more than a few days, compare prices for Norwich Airport parking in advance.
If you’re looking for car parking Norwich Airport information, the airport website lists short-stay, long-stay and drop-off options – all within walking distance of the terminal.
Norwich Airport Departures
Once you’ve parked or been dropped off, getting through departures is straightforward. With no baggage to check in, I went straight through security – another reminder of how much calmer and more manageable departures can be compared to Stansted or Luton.
One of the most welcome updates I discovered was that the irritating Airport Development Fee (ADF) is now included in your ticket price if you’re flying with Ryanair. It means you can proceed to security without having to fork out an additional £10 per person. Be warned: this doesn’t currently apply to all airlines.
Security can take a little patience. With just one baggage scanner, queues can move slowly. Thankfully, the staff are unfailingly friendly and helpful, and the smaller scale of Norwich International Airport makes the whole process feel far less stressful.
After passing security, we noticed some big improvements compared to our last visit. The new duty-free section is bright and modern, stocked with everything from perfume and whisky to chocolates and tobacco. There’s also a WHSmith for magazines and snacks, which is handy if you’ve forgotten something.
The Flour & Bean café-bar was busy and a touch pricey (as airports tend to be), but the food looked hearty and the service was fast. It’s a real bonus that they now stay open until the final flight departs — even when there’s a delay.
It’s worth noting that, because it’s such a small airport, this is the only dining option. Still, it’s cosy, convenient and friendly – very Norwich in that sense.
My main criticism is more to do with Ryanair than the airport itself. Priority boarding was included in our ticket, but we ended up waiting in a small holding area while non-priority passengers boarded first, which was frustrating. However, it’s more likely to be a Ryanair hiccup than the airport’s fault.
Norwich Airport arrivals
After a few relaxing days away, the return journey was just as straightforward – returning to Norwich was a breeze. After flying over the Norfolk Broads and spotting familiar landmarks, we landed smoothly and were through passport control in minutes.
We even booked a taxi while in the arrivals queue and were home within an hour – something that’s impossible after landing at Stansted or Gatwick.
Norwich Airport flights and destinations
While it’s a regional airport, the list of destinations is growing every year. So, where does Norwich Airport fly to right now?
Here are some of the current destinations from Norwich Airport:
- Amsterdam – a daily route operated by KLM, perfect for city breaks or onward connections
- Alicante, Malaga & Majorca – popular sunshine escapes
- Corfu, Crete & Rhodes – seasonal Greek favourites
- Malta – new for 2025 with Ryanair
- Faro, Portugal – another new addition for summer getaways
- Bergamo (for Milan) – ideal for those craving a stylish Italian weekend
You can also catch flights to Aberdeen and Exeter year-round, offering connections across the UK.
Final thoughts
Norwich Airport offers a calm, convenient and friendly way to travel for the county’s travellers. You won’t find dozens of terminals or endless queues, but you will find quick access, cheerful staff and an increasingly interesting choice of destinations.
The facilities are improving year by year, and with more flights being added, it’s becoming an appealing alternative to the London airports.
Next time you’re planning a trip, it’s well worth checking Norwich Airport departures – you might be surprised by where you can go.
Got somewhere to recommend in Norwich and Norfolk?
Drop me a line so I can check it out!
