Donegal Airport in the Republic of Ireland features the second most scenic approach in the world and below is some video so you can check it out for yourself. The private jet booking service PrivateFly run the annual survey and Donegal rose from 7 to 2 this year.

Located on the rugged remote Atlantic coast in the north west of Ireland, Donegal or Carrickfinn as it is sometimes known, is a small regional airport. Passengers can fly from Dublin twice daily and from Glasgow a couple of times a week with Aer Lingus Regional.

Donegal Airport Pride

A magazine named “Take Off” is published by Donegal Airport. The current issue features the fact that the airport has the second most scenic approach in the world on the front cover.


Inside is a small article detailing how over 8,000 votes were cast in the survey and listing the top ten scenic approaches in the world. For those wondering, Saba in the Caribbean came in at number one.

What Is The Scenic Approach Like?

Clouds are the bug bear of getting good views on landing and this plus being on the wrong side of the aircraft meant no scenic approach for me. Happily, when I departed the next day I could see a lot more, so here is a 4 minute video.

You can see that the coastline is quite beautiful in this part of the world. I would love to be able to fly around in a light aircraft to really enjoy the view. Aviation geeks will also enjoy the full Aer Lingus Regional after take off PA in the video.

Overall Thoughts

Ireland is a beautiful country to visit. You should fly from Dublin to Donegal with Aer Lingus Regional and see the approach for yourself. Your Wild Atlantic Way adventure can start from there too if you plan to tour the country by car.

While I have not had the pleasure of Saba, it’s great that I have the second most scenic approach on my doorstep as the flight from Dublin is cheap and under an hour. Thank you for reading and if you have any comments or questions, please leave them below.

Like planes? See my “Does anyone remember” series.
Flight reviews your thing? Mine are all indexed here.
Follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.