Inverness Airport Railway Station: Connecting the Highlands by Rail
Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands at Dalcross, the Inverness Airport railway station serves as a vital transport link for travelers arriving in the region. Situated on the Aberdeen–Inverness line between Nairn and Inverness, this modern facility provides a sustainable alternative to road travel, reducing congestion and carbon emissions in the east of Inverness.
The station is positioned 219.7 km (136 miles 43 chains) from Perth via Dava and Aviemore, acting as a strategic gateway for those visiting the airport or commuting within the Highland region.
Key Facts
- Opening Date: 2 February 2023.
- Operator: ScotRail.
- Location: Dalcross, Highland Scotland (Grid reference NH770511).
- Infrastructure: Two platforms with a passing loop and step-free access.
- Connectivity: Half-hourly shuttle bus service to the airport terminal.
- Growth: Passenger numbers rose from 6,096 in 2022/23 to 61,166 in 2024/25.
History and Development
From Proposal to Planning
The concept for a station at Dalcross first emerged in June 2006. The goal was to serve Inverness Airport and provide park-and-ride facilities to alleviate traffic congestion. By 2010, specifications included a 150-meter platform capable of accommodating six-carriage Class 170 trains. In 2011, the Scottish Government's Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Keith Brown, confirmed ongoing discussions between Transport Scotland and Network Rail.
A broader £170 million infrastructure upgrade for the Aberdeen–Inverness line was announced in 2014. This project encompassed signaling and track improvements, the relocation of Forres station, and platform extensions, alongside the planned reopening of stations at Dalcross and Kintore.
Construction and Final Design
Although originally targeted for a 2019 opening, construction timelines shifted. In December 2020, Network Rail submitted an updated plan for a two-platform station featuring full step-free access. The final design incorporated a 64-space car park (including 10 electric vehicle bays and four disabled bays), cycle paths, and two lifts.
Groundworks and embankment construction began in October 2021, followed by the installation of lift shafts and the footbridge in early 2022.
Official Opening
After a brief delay from December 2022, the station was officially opened on 2 February 2023 by Jenny Gilruth, the Minister for Transport, with the support of pupils from Croy Primary School. The general public began using the services the following day.
Station Facilities and Services
Passenger Amenities
The station is designed for accessibility and convenience, offering step-free access throughout via a footbridge and lifts. On-site facilities include:
- Ticket machines and help points.
- Waiting shelters.
- Dedicated car parking and cycle spaces.
Rail and Bus Connections
All rail services are operated by ScotRail. Passengers can access approximately hourly services between Inverness and Elgin, with trains continuing to Aberdeen roughly every two hours. A limited number of services extend further to Dundee and Edinburgh Waverley.
To bridge the gap between the rail line and the airport terminal, a shuttle bus service operates every half hour.
Passenger Volume Trends
Since its opening, the station has seen a significant increase in usage, reflecting its growing importance as a regional transport hub.
| Reporting Period | Entries and Exits |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 6,096 |
| 2023/24 | 53,920 |
| 2024/25 | 61,166 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Inverness Airport railway station open?
The station officially opened on 2 February 2023.
How do I get from the railway station to the airport terminal?
A shuttle bus service connects the station to the airport terminal, running every half hour.
Which train operator serves this station?
All services at Inverness Airport station are operated by ScotRail.
Is the station accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes, the station provides full step-free access, including the use of lifts and a footbridge to connect the two platforms.
Where is the station located?
It is located in Dalcross, Highland Scotland, on the Aberdeen–Inverness line between the towns of Nairn and Inverness.