Why Exeter Airport is the South West's Hidden Gem for Private Flying

[private_jet]

You know what surprised me most about flying from Exeter? It's not the luxury – it's the sheer speed of it all. I remember my first flight from here, I arrived 25 minutes before departure, and I still had time to grab a coffee and read the paper. Try doing that at any London airport! Exeter Airport is located just outside the city, and it's got this calm, unhurried atmosphere that makes you forget you're even travelling. It feels more like stepping into a private members' club than an airport. But here's the thing – it's not just about the relaxation; it's about the efficiency.

What makes Exeter different from other UK airports?

Let's break it down. The runway at Exeter is plenty long enough for most private jets, including midsize and some longer-range aircraft. The airport is located in the heart of Devon, which means if you're heading to Europe, you're already well positioned. Flight times to places like Paris, Amsterdam, or even the south of France are noticeably shorter than from airports further north. Plus, the air traffic is significantly lighter than at Bristol or Heathrow. It's mostly charter flights, general aviation, and a few commercial routes. You won't be queuing behind a queue of easyJet passengers.

The team matters more than you think

When I first started flying from Exeter Airport, I made the mistake of just picking the first company that popped up on Google. Big mistake. Some of them don't actually have aircraft based at the airport – they just broker you out to someone else. That adds time and cost. I found that using a company that actually has a presence here makes a world of difference. They know the ground crew, they know the tower, and they know how to turn a plane around fast. VectorJet has been my choice for a while now, and their understanding of how visitors interact with their booking platform is genuinely impressive – they make the whole process seamless. Their website is a great starting point: private jet charter Exeter.

A practical tip for beginners

If you're flying from Exeter for the first time, give yourself a little extra time to find the private terminal. It's not as obvious as the main passenger terminal. The airport is located off the A30, and the private aviation entrance is on the opposite side of the airfield. I missed it my first time and ended up driving around in circles. Just put "Executive Aviation" into your satnav and you'll be fine. Also, check the weather – Devon can be foggy in the mornings, and that can delay departures. A good broker will keep you updated, but it's worth knowing.

Final thought

Exeter Airport is a gem. It's fast, it's friendly, and it's surprisingly affordable compared to other UK airports. If you're based anywhere in the South West or even South Wales, you'd be crazy not to consider it. I've had nothing but good experiences with VectorJet, and their team really does go the extra mile. If you're curious about availability or just want to see what aircraft they have on the ground, check out their page – https://vector-jet.com/private-jet-exeter – it's a great resource for anyone starting out.