Small Airports That Offer the Best Views Before Takeoff

Most travelers think of airports as just a gateway to the destination, but some small airports offer views so spectacular that takeoff feels like part of the adventure. Nestled between mountains, perched on islands, or surrounded by turquoise waters, these lesser-known airports provide breathtaking scenery before you even leave the ground. Whether you're watching glaciers, volcanoes, or endless ocean horizons, these small airports prove that the best journeys start before takeoff.

Queenstown Airport – New Zealand

Flying in and out of Queenstown Airport feels like a scenic flight tour. Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, this small airport offers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped mountains, deep blue lakes, and winding rivers. Takeoff provides a stunning panorama of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, making every departure feel like an adventure film opening scene.

Paro Airport – Bhutan

Paro Airport is one of the most daring and breathtaking airports in the world. Surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, flights here require expert pilots to navigate a winding valley before takeoff. As you ascend, you get a rare aerial view of Bhutan’s remote monasteries, lush forests, and snow-covered mountains, making it one of the most scenic—and thrilling—airport departures on Earth.

St. Maarten Princess Juliana International Airport – Caribbean

Famous for its beachside runway, St. Maarten’s airport offers a one-of-a-kind takeoff experience. As planes accelerate down the short runway, passengers are treated to sweeping views of Maho Beach, where aviation lovers gather to watch departures up close. Within seconds, the turquoise waters of the Caribbean stretch out beneath you, making this a departure you’ll never forget.

Innsbruck Airport – Austria

Surrounded by the majestic Austrian Alps, Innsbruck Airport offers one of the most beautiful mountain takeoffs in the world. As your plane ascends, you’re treated to sweeping views of snow-covered peaks, deep valleys, and charming alpine villages. The changing seasons make each departure unique, from winter wonderlands to lush green meadows in summer.

Malé International Airport – Maldives

Located on its own island, Malé International Airport is surrounded by the stunning turquoise waters of the Maldives. As your plane lifts off, you’ll get a mesmerizing view of scattered atolls, coral reefs, and overwater bungalows. The contrast between the deep blue ocean and the white sandy beaches makes for a truly unforgettable takeoff.

Gibraltar International Airport – Gibraltar

One of the most unique airports in the world, Gibraltar International Airport sits between the sea and the massive Rock of Gibraltar. As you take off, the famous limestone cliff dominates one side while the Mediterranean stretches endlessly on the other. Adding to the excitement, the runway actually intersects with a busy road, making it one of the most unusual—and scenic—airport experiences.

Donegal Airport – Ireland

Voted one of the most scenic airports in the world, Donegal Airport offers a breathtaking departure over rugged coastline, rolling green hills, and the Atlantic Ocean. Taking off from here feels like flying out of a postcard, with dramatic cliffs and untouched beaches making for an unforgettable send-off.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport – France

Flying out of Nice Côte d’Azur Airport provides one of the most stunning views of the French Riviera. The departure path offers panoramic views of deep blue waters, luxury yachts, and sun-kissed coastline. As your plane climbs, you’ll see the famous beaches of Nice, the hills of Provence, and on clear days, even the snow-capped peaks of the Alps in the distance.

Barra Airport – Scotland

One of the only airports in the world where planes take off directly from a beach runway, Barra Airport in Scotland offers an incredibly unique departure experience. With the tide-dependent runway on the white sands of Traigh Mhòr, flights here provide stunning views of the remote Outer Hebrides islands, dramatic cliffs, and endless ocean—all while taking off from an actual beach.

Queen Beatrix International Airport – Aruba

Aruba’s main airport might be small, but it offers some of the most beautiful Caribbean takeoff views. Departing from Queen Beatrix International Airport gives passengers an aerial view of Aruba’s famous white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the rugged desert landscapes that make the island unique.

Courchevel Altiport – France

Located high in the French Alps, Courchevel Altiport is one of the most extreme and scenic small airports in the world. With a short, sloped runway carved into the mountainside, takeoff feels more like launching from a ski slope. Within seconds, you’re soaring over snow-covered peaks, alpine chalets, and dramatic cliffs, making it a dream departure for adventure seekers.

Qeqertarsuaq Heliport – Greenland

Not all breathtaking takeoffs happen on runways—some happen from helicopter pads. Qeqertarsuaq Heliport in Greenland offers an unforgettable departure over towering icebergs, dramatic fjords, and endless Arctic landscapes. As your helicopter lifts off, the untouched wilderness below feels like another planet.

Takeoff with a View

Some airports are more than just transit hubs—they offer unforgettable departures that turn the start of your journey into a breathtaking experience. Whether it’s soaring over beaches, weaving through mountains, or lifting off from a beach runway, these small airports prove that sometimes, the best part of a flight happens before you even leave the ground.