Southampton Airport, which claims to be the most modern regional airport in Europe, was completely rebuilt in 1994 as part of multi-million pound development.

The set down area at the front of the building sets the tone with attractive landscaping and modern sculpture. The light, bright main concourse houses both Departure and Arrivals areas on one level. The airport is well signposted throughout although only in the English language - a failing of most BAA run airports.

Southampton is rightly proud that it has the shortest plane to train connection of any airport in Europe. However in the rain, the lack of a covered walkway to the station can mean that you get wet.

Facilities are limited as you would expect from a small airport. A restaurant and bar provide basic requirements but the limited shopping opportunities might disappoint. There are no ATM cash machines although the Travelex Bureau de Change will cash UK cheques.

A small spectators viewing gallery provides a view of the airport to pass the time, but with scheduled services to 12 airports in the UK and 7 European destinations, there is sometimes little to see.

The first flight of the prototype Spitfire in 1936 was from Southampton Airfield and since then it has developed into an attractive modern airport. A wider range of destinations is now required to really put Southampton on the regional airport map.

Airlines at Southampton