Manchester is about 145 nautical miles (167 miles, 268 km) from the London Heliport in a straight line, so a helicopter flight to Manchester Barton takes roughly 60 to 80 minutes at 110 to 140 knots. It suits groups, tight schedules and journeys that start or end away from a station.
Distance and flying time
| Start | Finish | Distance in a straight line | Flying time estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| London Heliport, Battersea | Manchester Barton | 145 nautical miles (167 miles, 268 km) | 60 to 80 minutes |
Times assume a cruise of 110 to 140 knots on a direct route. The route in practice follows air traffic control routing, and winds can add or save several minutes.
Where you land
Our usual landing point is Manchester Barton, west of the city centre, which is a general aviation airfield with helicopter facilities. Landing close to a specific address or venue is sometimes possible with the owner’s permission; see can a helicopter land at your venue?. Our Manchester page has the details.
When a helicopter makes sense for this trip
- A group of three to six travelling together, where the cost is shared.
- A tight schedule, with meetings in London in the morning and in Manchester by lunchtime.
- Journeys that start or end away from a station, such as a country house or an event venue.
- Connecting with a private jet at a London airport or at Manchester.
For one person going from a London station to a Manchester station, the train will usually be simpler and cheaper. See helicopter or private jet for short UK trips for a fuller comparison.
What affects the price
The main factors are the distance flown, the helicopter chosen, waiting time if you want a same-day return, and landing fees. We give a fully worked quote for each trip; indicative prices for other routes are on our helicopter hire prices page, and the factors are explained in how much does it cost to charter a helicopter?.
Weather and timing
A flight of this length crosses several weather areas. We check the forecast the day before and on the morning of the flight and tell you if it changes. If the flight is cancelled because of the weather, you pay nothing. Remember the heliport’s opening hours when planning an early start or late return.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a helicopter take from London to Manchester?
About 60 to 80 minutes of flying time for the 145 nautical miles (268 km) from Battersea, depending on the aircraft, routing and wind.
Where does the helicopter land in Manchester?
Normally at Manchester Barton, west of the city centre. Other landing points may be possible with permission.
Is a helicopter faster than the train from London to Manchester?
Door to door it depends on where your journey starts and ends. A helicopter flies between Battersea and Manchester Barton without station queues or changes, which helps groups and tight schedules.
Can I do a same-day return?
Yes. The helicopter can wait or return for you, subject to daylight, weather and the heliport’s opening hours.
For the landing site, see the Manchester Barton Heliport guide on helicopterhireprices.co.uk.
Plan your flight
Flying to Manchester? Tell us your date, passengers and return plans and we will reply with a price. Our charter team is available 24 hours a day.