From the South and East. It is possible to fly from Anglesy or the North coast of Wales direct to the Island. When approaching the Island be aware that you will be entering controlled airspace and should contact Ronaldsway in good time. Commercial flights from Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham may be in the vicinity and a good lookout should be maintained. The last fueling point is Caernarfon airfield ( EGCK Caernarfon N5306.11 W00420.2).
Flying direct from Liverpool area requires a flight over water of approximately 70 nm. Passing through the low-level corridor between Liverpool and Manchester controlled zones pilots can turn west and coast out to the south of Blackpool. Alternatively pilots can fly north west, over Morecambe Bay and fly up the coast of Cumbria, past Sellafield and to St. Bees Head (N5430.67 W.00337.47). Taking a course from St. Bees head to the noth of the Island is only 28nm. and also avoids the two danger areas (D405, D406) off Cumbria. Fuel can be taken onboard at Barton, Blackpool or Carlisle but not Kirkbride.
From the North. Approaching the Island from is straightforward and also provides the shortest route over water. The distance from Barrow Head (N5440.93 W. 00423.47) in Scotland, to the Point of Ayre on the Northern tip of the Island is 18nm. There is a small and friendly airfield near Stranraer however no fuel is available there. The nearest place to take on fuel is Carlisle. When flying in this area it is best to maintain contact with Scottish Information on freq. 119.875. From the West. Flying from the west usually means coming in from Belfast and the area nearby. The flight over water is approximately 40 nm. and for GA aircraft the excellent facilities at Newtownards provide and excellent departure point. When leaving Northern Ireland pilots should contact Balfast Approach freq. 130.85 and inform them of their route.
IMPORTANT. It is important to remember that all flight to and from the Isle of Man are subject to the requirements of the Anti Terrorist regulations. As such a GA report must be filed with the appropriate authorities prior to any flight. Landing and Departure forms are avaliable at Ronaldsway and Andreas. Ronaldsway is a designated airport and the requirements are more straightforward if landing or taking off from here. General Aviation Report Form for the IOM download.