Cardiff Airport

Cardiff Airport general information

Flying from Cardiff Airport? Our guide covers essential passenger information, including check-in times, security procedures, shopping, restaurants, WiFi, accessibility, baby changing facilities and transport options.

Find everything you need to plan your journey and enjoy a smoother start to your trip.

Cardiff Airport parking

If you're driving to Cardiff Airport, APH offers convenient parking options to suit different budgets and travel requirements.

Choose from parking services with different transfer arrangements, security features and facilities, depending on the product selected.

Family-owned since 1980, APH has more than 45 years' experience helping travellers arrange airport parking.

Compare prices, availability and services on our dedicated Cardiff Airport parking page before booking.

View airport parking

All about Cardiff Airport

Cardiff Airport (CWL) is Wales' main international airport, located in Rhoose in the Vale of Glamorgan, approximately 12 miles southwest of Cardiff city centre.

The airport provides domestic and international flights, connecting passengers with destinations across the UK, Europe and selected holiday destinations further afield.

Cardiff Airport operates from a main passenger terminal offering check-in facilities, security screening, shops, cafés, restaurants, WiFi and accessible passenger services.

Passengers can also access airport parking, car hire, public transport and taxi services.

Our guide brings together useful information about Cardiff Airport's facilities, services and transport connections to help you prepare for your journey.

Getting There

Cardiff Airport is located approximately 12 miles southwest of Cardiff city centre and can be reached by car, bus, train and taxi.

By car: The airport is accessible from the M4 via Junction 33, following the A4232 and local road signs towards Cardiff Airport.

By bus: Local bus services connect Cardiff Airport with nearby towns and transport hubs. Routes and timetables may change, so check current services before travelling.

By train: Rhoose Cardiff International Airport railway station is the nearest station, with connections towards Cardiff and Bridgend. Passengers should check the latest onward transport arrangements between the station and airport terminal.

By taxi: Taxis and private hire vehicles provide connections between Cardiff Airport, Cardiff city centre and surrounding areas.

Allow additional time during busy periods and check current transport timetables before departure.

Check-in information

Check-in times at Cardiff Airport vary depending on your airline, destination and whether you're travelling with checked luggage.

As a general guide, passengers should allow around two hours before departure, although some airlines and destinations may require additional time.

Check your airline's recommended arrival time, online check-in arrangements and baggage drop-off deadlines before travelling.

Allow extra time during busy periods, particularly if you're travelling with children or require special assistance.

Destinations

Cardiff Airport offers domestic and international flights, connecting Wales with destinations across the UK, Europe and selected holiday destinations further afield.

Airlines operating from Cardiff include KLM, Ryanair, TUI, Vueling and Aer Lingus, with routes and flight frequencies varying throughout the year.

Popular holiday destinations include Spain, Portugal, Greece and other European locations, depending on the season.

Visit Cardiff Airport's official website to check the latest destinations, airlines and flight schedules before booking your journey.

Disabled Passenger Details

Cardiff Airport provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, disabilities and additional accessibility requirements.

Passengers requiring assistance should contact their airline or travel provider in advance to arrange the support they need. This may include assistance with check-in, security, moving through the terminal and boarding.

The airport also provides dedicated assistance arrangements for passengers who need additional support during their journey.

For more information, contact Cardiff Airport's Special Assistance team or visit the airport's official accessibility information pages before travelling.

Family Assisted Lanes

Families travelling with babies and young children should allow additional time to pass through airport security.

If you're travelling with a pushchair, baby food, milk or additional hand luggage, check Cardiff Airport's latest security guidance before departure.

Dedicated family security arrangements may change, so passengers requiring additional assistance should contact the airport in advance.

Shopping

Cardiff Airport offers shopping facilities where passengers can purchase travel essentials, gifts, toiletries and duty-free products before departure.

World Duty Free offers a selection of fragrances, cosmetics, drinks and other travel retail products, while WHSmith provides snacks, reading materials and everyday travel essentials.

Shopping facilities are available within the terminal, although individual store locations and opening hours may vary.

Check Cardiff Airport's official shopping information for the latest retailers and opening times before travelling.

Where to Eat

Cardiff Airport offers a selection of cafés, bars and food outlets for passengers looking for refreshments before their flight.

Before security, passengers can visit Costa Coffee in arrivals or Greggs for hot drinks, snacks and light bites.

After security, options include Costa Coffee, Y Castell and Tap & Brew, offering a choice of coffee, breakfast items, snacks and meals.

Food and drink outlets may have different opening hours depending on flight schedules, so check Cardiff Airport's official website for the latest information. Here's a full list of places to eat at Cardiff Airport.

Wi-Fi access

Cardiff Airport provides WiFi access within the terminal, allowing passengers to check flight information, access travel documents and stay connected before departure.

Free access periods, connection requirements and any charges for additional usage may change.

Check Cardiff Airport's latest WiFi information and follow the on-screen instructions when connecting to the available airport network. Further information on charges and how to connect can be found here.  

Baby Changing

Cardiff Airport provides baby changing facilities for passengers travelling with babies and young children.

Families should check the terminal information or ask airport staff for the nearest available facilities before or after security.

If you're travelling with an infant, allow additional time for feeding, changing and security checks before departure.

Luggage Trolleys

Luggage trolleys are available at Cardiff Airport to help passengers transport their bags between designated airport areas and the terminal.

Collection points, deposit requirements and any applicable charges may change, so check the airport's latest facilities information before travelling.

Passengers carrying oversized or additional luggage should also check their airline's baggage allowance and restrictions. Find out all the details here.

Pharmacies

Passengers travelling through Cardiff Airport should arrange any essential prescription medication before arriving at the terminal.

Selected airport retailers may offer basic healthcare products and travel essentials, although the availability of specific items and pharmacy services may vary.

Keep essential medication in your hand luggage and check airport security guidance if you're travelling with liquids, medical equipment or other healthcare items.

Showers

Public shower facilities are not currently available at Cardiff Airport.

Chapel

Cardiff Airport provides multi-faith facilities for passengers who wish to pray or spend time in quiet reflection before travelling.

Passengers should check the airport's latest terminal information or ask airport staff for the current location and availability of these facilities.