DONEGAL RETAINS TOP SPOT AS THE WORLD"S MOST SCENIC AIRPORT

 

Donegal Airport has the most scenic approach of any airport in the world, according to PrivateFly's annual Scenic Airport Poll.

The Irish gateway beat the likes of Nice Côte d'Azur, Queenstown and St Maarten to win the accolade.

Describing the approach to Donegal, one voter said: "The view is spectacular! Mountains on one side and a beautiful rugged coastline dotted with islands and golden sandy beaches running adjacent to the runway."

Another insisted: "Most beautiful scenery I ever saw, with the beach on one side with crystal clear water and Mount Errigal standing tall on the other side."

While a third remarked: "There is nowhere as lovely as the wild rugged beauty of unspoiled Donegal."

The decision has been met with enthusiasm by airline Stobart Air, which operates between Dublin and Donegal.

A spokesman says: “Stobart Air wish to congratulate Donegal Airport on being named ‘Most Scenic Airport’ by PrivateFly for the second year in a row. 

"This achievement is a great boost for County Donegal and for the airport and is testament to the attractiveness of the county as a destination to visit.

“Maintaining strong connectivity between the capital and Ireland’s regions, while also facilitating links to international destinations through Dublin, is a focus and priority for us."

Barra in Scotland was in second place in the poll followed by Nice Côte d'Azur, Orlando Melbourne, St Maarten, Sabo Juancho E Yrausquin (Dutch Atilles), Queenstown, Toronto Billy Bishop, London City and Aosta in Italy.

Describing the approach to Barra, one voter said: "The quirky nature, the magificent views coming in and going out and onto a sandy beach. It is a joyous experience from start to finish. Just wonderful."

While another waxed lyrical: "I just love the remoteness of the Isle of Barra and its rugged terrain. Landing on a cockle shell beach is quite the experience too. Make sure the tide is out!"

And another enthused: "The approach to Barra airport is awesome – superb views over to Skye and the small isles then seeing the causeway between Eriskay and South Uist coming in over the sand dunes to land on the beach at Barra is a totally unique experience – nothing beats it...every time!"

Talking about sixth placed Saba, one voter said: "The air approach to Saba is spectacular and thrilling. The island is seen ahead and as you approach begins to fill the view. 

"As you get closer you can see the colourful cottages, trees and lush shrubbed areas, mixed among spectacular rock formations. The plane turns, dips and lands. Amazing!"

Another simply said: "Thrilling landing, spectacular views and the beautiful scenery of Saba – the unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean."