Skybus Flights to the Isles of Scilly: Your Complete Guide
Skybus is the scheduled light aircraft service connecting the Isles of Scilly with mainland Cornwall and Devon. Land's End operates year-round and Exeter is seasonal. Newquay services are suspended from 1 September 2026 until 16 March 2027, with a planned spring 2027 return. Always confirm current schedules and service status with the operator.
The Three Routes
Land's End
20 mins to St Mary's
Quickest option. Year-round. Closest to the Penzance area. Dogs permitted.
Newquay
30 mins to St Mary's
Suspended until 16 March 2027; usual flight time shown for planning after the route resumes.
Exeter
~1 hour to St Mary's
Seasonal (typically summer). Best for visitors from Devon and the East. No dogs.
The Aircraft
Skybus operates the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter — a robust, highly regarded regional aircraft carrying up to 19 passengers. The Twin Otter is ideally suited to the short-hop nature of Scilly flights, and its low cruising altitude means outstanding views of the Cornish coast, the Penwith peninsula and the islands as you approach.
Fares
Fares vary by departure airport, time of year, and how far in advance you book. Land's End typically offers the most competitively priced options, particularly for day trips. Exeter fares tend to be higher. Always check current pricing at islesofscilly-travel.co.uk — fares shown by any third-party guide are indicative only.
Luggage Allowance
15kg hold luggage allowance per person
Two hold bags, 15kg combined; maximum size 75 × 50 × 30 cm. No hold allowance on day-trip tickets.
One cabin bag up to 30 × 15 × 15 cm and 3kg. Measure your bag before travelling: an ordinary airline cabin case is too large.
Excess and oversized baggage require an advance check with the operator and available space.
Checked 9 September 2026: official Skybus luggage policy.
At 15kg, the Skybus luggage allowance is more restrictive than the Scillonian ferry's 25kg allowance. If you're travelling with a family or staying for more than a few days, this is worth factoring into your planning.
Travelling With Dogs
Dogs accepted on Land's End and Newquay routes
Dogs are NOT permitted on the Exeter route
Book your dog's place in advance — space is limited
If you're travelling to the Isles of Scilly with a dog, Skybus from Land's End or Newquay is a valid option. See our full dog travel guide for a complete comparison of all three services.
Weather & Disruption
Low cloud, fog and strong winds can affect Skybus operations. Land's End Airport in particular can experience foggy conditions. Before travelling, always check the operator's service status page. In the event of cancellation, the operator will typically rebook you or offer a refund. Building flexibility into your travel plans is always wise.
Is Skybus Right For You?
Well suited to
- Day trips to the islands
- Year-round visitors
- Travellers from Devon
- Those wanting aerial views
- Flexible itineraries
Less suited to
- Heavy packers (15kg limit)
- Dog owners from Exeter
- Those seeking Tresco direct
- Fog-sensitive travellers
Book Direct
Always book directly with the operator for the most accurate fares and availability.
Book via Official Site