Glasgow International Airport (GLA) – All You Need to Know
Glasgow International Airport (formerly Abbotsinch Airport) is one of the busiest international airports in Scotland, located approximately 15 km west of Glasgow city center. Serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, it connects travelers to popular destinations across Europe, North America, and beyond.
With a wide range of transportation options and passenger services, GLA ensures easy access to the city of Glasgow and the surrounding areas.
Flying to Glasgow? Prepare for your trip with our comprehensive guide!
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General information
IATA code: GLA
ICAO code: EGPF
Passengers: 8 to 9 million passengers annually
The airport in Glasgow is the country’s second and the UK’s ninth busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic. It has grown significantly over the years, offering many flight options to destinations worldwide.
The airport has one terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal is divided into different areas for check-in, departures, and arrivals, offering a variety of services for passengers.
How to Get from Glasgow Airport to City Centre
If you’re wondering how to get to Glasgow city center, you’re in luck – there are several convenient transportation options available from the airport. You can take the Glasgow Airport Express bus, which offers a direct route to the city center in just 15 minutes. Alternatively, taxis, private transfers, and the nearby train station also provide easy access to Glasgow’s vibrant downtown area.
Glasgow Airport Shuttle Bus
The Glasgow Airport Express (First Bus 500) is a convenient shuttle bus service connecting GLA to the city center in just 15 minutes. Departing from Stance 1 at the airport, the bus runs every 10 minutes, 24/7. It is the fastest and most convenient way to travel.
The route includes stops at key locations such as Bothwell Street, Hope Street, George Square, North Hanover Station, and Buchanan Bus Station. On the return journey, the bus stops at North Hanover Street, George Square, St Vincent Place, Waterloo Street, and finally, the airport. Tickets can be purchased onboard or online for added convenience.
Local Bus
Local buses offer an easy and affordable way to travel between the airport and the city centre. In addition to the Airport Express, local buses operated by McGill’s also connect the airport to nearby towns and parts of the city. Routes like McGill’s 757 link the airport with Paisley Gilmour Street station and Clydebank, offering convenient transfers to local rail services.
While a public bus usually takes longer than the express service, it’s a budget-friendly choice for travelers heading to areas beyond the city centre. Timetables and tickets are available on McGill’s website.
Train
While there is no direct train service from GLA, travelers can easily reach the rail network via Paisley Gilmour Street station, which is just a short ride away. You can take McGill’s 757 bus or a taxi from the airport to the station. From there, frequent trains run to Glasgow Central Station, with a journey time of around 10–15 minutes. It’s especially convenient if you’re planning to reach other parts of Scotland by train.
If you choose the train, the nearest station to Glasgow Airport is Paisley Gilmour Street, just 1.5 km from the terminal and connected by McGill’s 757 bus service.
Taxi Service
Official taxis are readily available at Glasgow Airport, with a dedicated rank just outside the main terminal. All airport taxis are licensed and metered, offering a comfortable ride to the city centre in 20 minutes.
In addition to traditional black cabs, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely used in Glasgow—perfect if you prefer tapping your way to a ride and skipping the queue.
Glasgow Airport Transfer
Another way to travel from the airport in Glasgow is with a private, door-to-door transfer directly to your accommodation in the city. You can pre-book a transfer for a hassle-free experience. A professional driver will wait for you at the airport and take you to your destination.
Glasgow Airport Rent a Car
For those of you who would like to reach the city and explore the area on your own, the best option is to rent a car directly at the airport.
There are several car rental companies there: Avis, Europcar, Enterprise, National, Alamo, Hertz, Budget, and Dollar. All the information desks are located in the Arrivals hall at the airport. Compare their prices and offers and save time by booking online and in advance.
Renting a bus
If you’re coming in a larger group of people, consider renting a bus for your journey. Keep in mind to book it in advance, so that the transfer company has enough time to inform you of the meeting point and all other relevant information.
Airlines at the airport
The airport handles international and domestic flights. Some of the busiest routes are to London, Dublin, Amsterdam, and even Dubai.
Here’s a list of airlines that typically operate from GLA:
- British Airways
- easyJet
- Ryanair
- Jet2.com
- TUI Airways
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Emirates
- Loganair
- Aer Lingus
- Icelandair
- Air Transat
- Virgin Atlantic (seasonal)
Services and Facilities
If you’re waiting for your flight or you’re on a layover, maybe some of these services and facilities available at GLA airport will help you:
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Shops and duty-free stores
- Restaurants, cafes and bars
- Luggage service
- Information desk
- Prayer room and quiet areas
- Special assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility
- Free Wi-Fi
Accommodation near Glasgow Airport
Popular Glasgow Airport hotels include both chain and independent properties, many offering shuttle services. If you’re after comfort and proximity, hotels near Glasgow Airport are ideal for early departures or late arrivals. Check out the accommodation map below to find accommodation options in the close vicinity of the airport:
Glasgow Airport FAQ
Glasgow Airport is located about 15 kilometres west of the city centre. The fastest way to get there is by the Glasgow Airport Express (bus 500), which takes around 15 minutes and runs 24/7. Official taxis, Uber, and Bolt are also available outside the terminal. If you prefer public transport, local buses and nearby train connections via Paisley Gilmour Street are reliable options.
Yes, Glasgow International Airport operates 24/7, although some services like shops and cafes may close overnight. Transport connections like the Airport Express bus and taxis are available at all hours. Lounges and some waiting areas also remain open for passengers on late or early flights.
Yes, all passengers get 1 hour of free Wi-Fi. You can extend it by signing up for more hours or paying for unlimited access.
Glasgow is served by two airports, but only Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is close to the city centre. The second one, Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK), is about 50 km away and mostly used by low-cost airlines.
I will arrive to Glasgow airport at 9:30 pm and I want go to Fort William, is there bus at this time from the airport to Fort William? I see the 915 but I don’t see the timetable of it.
Many thanks
Dear Hala,
The bus 915 departs only twice a day – at 10am and at 3pm, so You will have to wait the following day to visit Fort William.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
Is the airport bus currently running with the current virus restrictions. We are due to arrive tomorrow evening
Dear Maureen,
You should either contact the airline company you’re flying with or the airport contact number for more information.
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
Can I use my scottish bus pass on the airport bus service?
Dear Thomas,
I’m not quite sure about that, You will need to check that directly with the bus service.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
Yes
Hi can l get a bus from Glasgow central. Train station to Glasgow main airport pl ?
Dear Joan,
yes, Airport Express (500) takes you from the airport to Glasgow main railway station.
Best,
GBB Team
I need to get to Glasgow Airport for a 4.30am check in. I’m staying in a hotel in Sauchihall st. Can I get a bus at that time. Thanks
Dear Ian,
Airport bus shuttle runs 24/7 so there’s no fear of missing Your flight. The closest bus stop is in Pitt Street.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
I have a BritRail pass and will be traveling from Glasgow airport to London. Will the pass cover the 757bus portion of the trip?
Dear John,
Unfortunately, we do not have that kind of information but I think that BritRail pass covers only train tickets.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
Hi Melanie, I am flying into Glasgow 7.50pm and staying in Renfrew Street…is there a bus that goes by Hampton Court Guesthouse or must I go to Buchanan Station and taxi from there Thank you for your time
Dear Joy,
There’s only one bus from the airport and it is 500 Airport Express, You can check the route map here but You will probably need to exit at Buchanan Station.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
I need to be at Glasgow airport at 8am on Sunday, Im staying at Outside Cessnock tube guest house, how can I get there in time, which would be the best stop to take the bus?
Dear Silvia,
You first need to reach Buchanan Station by subway and then take 500 Express shuttle to Glasgow Airport. First subway train leaves at 6:30am from Govan St. (you should get on train at Cessnock subway stop) and around 6:50 it should arrive at Buchanan. There’s a shuttle bus departing at 7:00 from Buchanan to the airport and each following departure is every 10 minutes.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
I arrive at GLA Airport and am headed to Z Motel at 36 North Frederick Street. I am confused about what but to take. Is there more than one type bus called 500?
How do you pay the driver and do you know the cost?
Can you inform me on a return when I need to return to the airport fro Z Motel?
I am not an experienced bus rider and any info is appreciated.
Dear Bettina,
I suggest taking 500 Airport Express bus and exit at Dundas Street bus stop and from there you have additional 3-minute walk. More info about bus tickets and how to buy them here.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
Melani, I sent you an earlier request but now have my facts straight.
I will take the bus from GLA airport to 36 North Frederick. What stop will be best for me?
On return I will need to take the bus from 320 Argyle Street to GLA Airport. What but stop do I need to take? In both cases I assume I need the Airport shuttle bus? Credit card is ok for paying?
Dear Bettina,
On return I advise getting on the bus at bus stop in North Hannover Street, also 500 Airport Express bus. You can pay contactless on board.
Best regards!
Melani, GBB Team
I’m leaving from Eurocentral to Glasgow Airport
Any buses from here?
Dear Mao,
I’m afraid the best option would be to take 500 Express bus since there are no buses from Eurocentral to Glasgow Airport.
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
hello
I wonder if their is a bus from Buchanan Street bus station to glasgow airport 7pm on a Saturday 9 March
Dear Linda,
Airport bus 500 Express runs regularly every day, on Saturday the first bus departs at 04:30. Then it departs every half hour until 06:30. After that it’s every 15 minutes.
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
we are flying into Glasgow Saturday Sept 21 and staying at the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow. 2 questions: 1. how close does the First 500 Bus get us to our location? and 2. we each have a “carry on” small piece of luggage and a 26″ larger piece. Are these pieces of luggage allowed on the bus, even if the bus is crowded? thanks
Dear Genevieve,
You should get off at bus stop Waterloo Lane. It’s the closest to your accommodation. Regarding the luggage, the airport bus has a compartment for luggage inside the bus so I think your luggage should fit.
Best regards
Melani GBB Team
I’m trying to get contact details for the airport shuttle 500 bus that runs from Buchanan Street. I need to get a refund as our trip is cancelled
Dear Linda,
Glasgow Airport Express service 500 is operated by First Glasgow company, we suggest that you visit their website where you can find their contact info.
Best regards,
Antonia, GBB Team
Hi,
I am staying at the Travelodge Glasgow Central this Friday could you advise which stop I would have to get off that would be closest to the hotel?
Thanks in advance.
Dee
Dear Dee,
The nearest stations to Travelodge Glasgow Central are Cambridge Street, Rose Street and Cowcaddens Spt Subway Station.
Best regards,
Gabriela GBB Team
Arriving at Glasgow airport on 26th December 2019, departing 1st January 2020. Will the Shuttle bus ro rhe city centre be running on these days?
Dear Mari,
Glasgow Airport Express service 500 is operating every day of the year except on Christmas day, so arriving to the city center shouldn’t be a problem any other day.
Best regards,
Maja, GBB Team
I want to book a bus from Buchanan bus station to Glasgow airport but the bus shows bus station as a stop rather it shows city. Please help me book a bus ticket for Buchanan bus station to Glasgow airport on 19th of November between 10 AM – 11AM.
Thanks
Dear Abhishek,
You can find the link for online ticket purchase in the blog post.
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
We are in Glasgow for a long weekend – is there a bus that goes from Buchanan Bus deport to Edinburgh? If so how long does it take and approx cost?
Dear Terry,
Yes, the buses to Edinburgh depart from Buchanan Station, and you can check departures and book your ticket on the following link: Glasgow to Edinburgh
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
Does a bus go to Pacific Quay from Buchanan Bus Station?
Dear Terry,
The exact route of the airport bus from Buchanan Bus Station can be seen here.
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
I use a mobility scooter ,are the airport to city center bus services accessible ?
Dear Paudi,
Information on mobility scooters in airport buses can be found on the official website of the bus carrier.
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
Hello,
Is the £12 return ticket an open ticket. ie we will be in Glasgow for 5 days.
If not what is the price for an open ticket.
Regards,
Alex
Dear Alexander,
Yes, return ticket is open, however, the price went up and now it costs £14.
Best regards,
Melani GBB Team
Hi, does Glasgow airport have a park and ride like they do in Edinburgh?
Dear Jim,
yes, Glasgow Airport offers various parking options which you can check and directly book on their official website.
Best regards,
Maja GBB Team
I need to know if I can catch the bus from Glasgow airport to my hotel the Holiday INN express center riverside. If so what is the best way thanks
Dear George,
the best way to get to your hotel is to take a shuttle bus (500 Airport Express) from the airport to the city. From there, you have a few options, the easiest would be:
– exit shuttle bus at Waterloo Lane then take a train from Glasgow Central station to Argyle Street or
– exit shuttle bus at Dundas Street then take a subway from Buchanan Street to St. Enoch
In both cases, you are left with a few minutes walking to your accommodation.
If you choose to travel by local buses, most of them make a stop at Buchanan Street.
Best regards,
Maja, GBB Team
If I arrive at Glasgow airport and want to go to Cumbernauld by bus. How do I do this?
Do I get a shuttle from airport to Glasgow Central then get a Buchanan bus? I’ve not been in Scotland in years.Does the bus go directly to Cumbernauld? Will the driver let me know when I have reached my destination?
Hi Jacqueline,
yes, first you need to take a shuttle (500 Airport Express) to Glasgow city center, then you can switch to a bus to Cumbernauld. You can book your tickets directly on the link.
Best,
GBB Team
What bus gets me to cumbernauld from Glasgow Airport my flight lands at 1245am
Hi Margaret,
First, you need to reach Glasgow by taking a 500 Airport Express, then you need to switch to ScotRail to Cumbernauld.
Best,
GBB Team
is there 500 bus to city centre if arriving back at 1.30am .
Hi Catherine,
yes, the Glasgow Airport Express operates 24 hours a day, including through the night. If you arrive at Glasgow Airport at 1:30 AM, you will be able to catch the bus to the city center.
Marija,
GetByBus Team