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London Gatwick Airport, originally named Tinsley Green Aerodrome, opened in 1930 as a private airfield. Situated approximately 29.5 miles south of Central London, the airfield quickly evolved into a commercial airport. In 1933, it was granted its first public license and began regular air services to destinations such as Paris and Belfast. The expansion continued, and during World War II, Gatwick was requisitioned by the Royal Air Force to serve as a military base, playing a significant role in supporting the war effort.

Post-war, Gatwick underwent substantial redevelopment, and in 1958, it was officially reopened by Queen Elizabeth II as London Gatwick Airport, boasting a new terminal building designed to handle increased passenger traffic. The introduction of the “pier” design, allowing aircraft to park directly alongside the terminal, was a pioneering feature that enhanced the airport’s operational efficiency. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Gatwick experienced rapid growth, accommodating both domestic and international flights, with numerous airlines establishing operations there. Its location and accessibility made it a popular choice for holidaymakers and business travelers alike.

Today, London Gatwick Airport is the world’s busiest single runway airport. The airport has also made strides in sustainability, implementing various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. London Gatwick remains a vital hub for leisure and some business travel across Europe and longhaul destinations.

Fly to another aiport map: Manchester airport

Historic Ordnance Survey mapping used for ZyXmaps’s ‘UK airport landscapes’ series is reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland (CC-BY). Airport layout © Open Streetmap Contributors. Photographs © edition ND.

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Southampton Airport, originally established as a grass airfield in 1910, has seen its fair share of historical events and significant milestones. During World War I, the airfield was repurposed as a base for the Royal Flying Corps, leading to extensive development and the construction of hangars. In the 1930s, it became the primary base for the innovative Supermarine aircraft, including the legendary Spitfire, which made its maiden flight from Southampton in 1936. This period cemented the airport’s role in the aviation industry and marked it as a site of technological advancements.

The airport’s prominence continued into World War II, serving as a crucial operational base for various RAF squadrons. Post-war, Southampton Airport transitioned to civil aviation, facilitating commercial flights and rapidly growing in passenger numbers. The 1950s saw the introduction of scheduled flights to destinations such as the Channel Islands and mainland Europe, positioning the airport as a vital regional hub. Significant infrastructure improvements followed, including the construction of modern terminals and extended runways to accommodate larger aircraft. The early 2000s witnessed a surge in low-cost carriers, boosting the airport’s popularity among budget travelers.

Read about aviation pioneer Edwin Moon’s first flight from Southampton in 1910.

Today, Southampton Airport has a mixture of domestic and European flights on regional airlines as well as low-cost operators, trying to re-establish passenger numbers in the region of 2 million per year as seen before the pandemic.

Fly to another aiport map: London City airport

Historic Ordnance Survey mapping used for ZyXmaps’s ‘UK airport landscapes’ series is reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland (CC-BY). Airport layout © Open Streetmap Contributors. Photographs © edition ND.

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London Heathrow Airport, located in the London Borough of Hillingdon, began its operations in 1946 as a civil aviation airport, initially using ex-military tents as terminal buildings. Originally known as London Airport, it was officially renamed Heathrow Airport in 1966, deriving its name from the small hamlet of Heathrow that previously existed on the site. The airport quickly established itself as a major hub for international travel, with its first transatlantic flight taking off in 1946.

The airport’s expansion has been significant over the decades. The first permanent terminal building, Terminal 1, opened in 1969, followed by the addition of Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5 in subsequent years to accommodate the growing number of passengers. The development of Heathrow’s infrastructure included the construction of two runways and the creation of modern facilities designed to provide a seamless travel experience. The opening of the Heathrow Express rail link in 1998 further enhanced accessibility to central London, cementing the airport’s role as a crucial transportation hub.

Today, London Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 80 million passengers annually and serving as a primary gateway for international travel. The airport offers flights to over 180 destinations across more than 90 countries.

Fly to another aiport map: Southampton airport

Historic Ordnance Survey mapping used for ZyXmaps’s ‘UK airport landscapes’ series is reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland (CC-BY). Airport layout © Open Streetmap Contributors. Photographs © edition ND.

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Edinburgh Airport, located in Ingliston, Edinburgh, began its life as Turnhouse Aerodrome in 1916, serving as a military airfield during World War I. The site was used primarily for the Royal Flying Corps, and later the Royal Air Force, playing a key role in Britain’s defense efforts. After World War II, the airfield transitioned to civilian use, and the first commercial flights took off from Edinburgh Airport in 1947.

A little stream, Gogar Burn, still flows through the central area of the airport. The shape of the airport in the south-eastern corner indicates the location of second runway 12/30 (NE-SWG, previously 13/31) which was decomissioned in 2018.

Significant development occurred in the 1970s, with the opening of a new passenger terminal in 1977, designed to cater to the increasing number of travelers. The construction of a new runway was also completed in 1977, allowing the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and expand its route network. Over the years, Edinburgh Airport has continued to grow, with numerous upgrades and expansions to its facilities to keep up with the demand for air travel.

Today, Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest airport, handling over 14 million passengers annually and offering flights to more than 150 destinations worldwide.

Fly to another aiport map: London Heathrow airport

Historic Ordnance Survey mapping used for ZyXmaps’s ‘UK airport landscapes’ series is reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland (CC-BY). Airport layout © Open Streetmap Contributors. Photographs © edition ND.

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Manchester Airport, located in Ringway, Manchester, opened its doors in 1938. Originally known as Ringway Airport, it served as an important base for the Royal Air Force during World War II. Post-war, it transitioned to civil aviation and saw the introduction of transatlantic flights in the 1960s, positioning itself as a significant player in international air travel.

The airport underwent significant expansions in the latter half of the 20th century. The first major development was the opening of Terminal 1 in 1962, followed by Terminal 2 in 1993. These expansions facilitated increased passenger capacity and improved facilities, catering to the growing demand for air travel. Additionally, the airport’s rail station, which opened in 1993, enhanced connectivity, making it easier for travelers to access the airport from various locations.

Today, Manchester Airport stands as the third busiest airport in the United Kingdom, serving over 29 million passengers annually. It boasts three passenger terminals and handles flights to over 200 destinations worldwide.

Fly to another aiport map: Edinburgh airport

Historic Ordnance Survey mapping used for ZyXmaps’s ‘UK airport landscapes’ series is reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland (CC-BY). Airport layout © Open Streetmap Contributors. Photographs © edition ND.