Travelling to the Falkland Islands, whether via the MOD Airbridge or LATAM flights, needs careful planning and it is important to make sure you have all the necessary documents and requirements.
Below is an overview of the key points to keep in mind for your journey.
Passport and documentation requirements
All passengers travelling to and from the Falkland Islands must hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity. As well as your passport, you must also have your work permit document for customs purposes when arriving in the Falklands.
British passports can be renewed from the Falklands, but this process may take several months. If you are travelling from a non-UK country, it is advisable to check your nationality’s passport renewal process before making travel arrangements.
Renewal reminder: Make sure that your passport does not expire within six months of your arrival date, as it’s important to renew it well in advance of your travel.
MOD Airbridge flight details
For most travellers departing from the UK, the standard route to the Falklands is via the MOD Airbridge flight. Departing from RAF Brize Norton, the journey takes approximately 18 hours, including a refuelling stop at Ascension Island, where
passengers will disembark and wait about two hours.
Flight schedule & booking
Flights typically depart from RAF Brize Norton on Sundays and Wednesdays. Assure you plan accordingly around these days.
Flight confirmation details will generally be provided 10 days before departure. However, please be aware that you may be placed on a waitlist due to limited civilian seats (only 30 available per flight). If this happens, you will be notified 48 hours before the flight with rescheduled details.
Baggage guidelines
Passengers are generally allowed up to 54 kilos of luggage in total (for passengers over 2 years old), but individual items cannot exceed 28 kilos or 100cm x 60cm x 45cm in size.
Hand luggage is limited to one bag per passenger, with dimensions not exceeding 60cm x 53cm x 25cm and a weight limit of 9 kilos.
You are allowed to bring a laptop in addition to your hand luggage as long as it fits within the weight limits.
Excess baggage will be charged at £10 per kilo.
Security restrictions apply to liquids, aerosols, and gels, so ensure that these items comply with aviation regulations. Containers must be 100ml or less and packed in checked luggage whenever possible.
For families with children
If you are travelling with young children, especially those under 2 years old, be sure to bring an appropriate car seat. Sky Cots are available for babies up to 6 months of age, but children under two travel free of charge, though they do not have a seat of their own.
In-flight and onward travel tips
In-flight entertainment is limited, so it’s a good idea to pack your own entertainment, such as books, electronic devices, and games, particularly if you are travelling with children.
Make sure that you have essential toiletries, a small towel, and a change of clothing in your hand luggage in case of delays.
LATAM Flights (Via South America)
For those travelling from outside the UK, the most direct route may be via LATAM Airlines through Santiago, Chile, and onward to Punta Arenas before catching the connecting flight to the Falklands. This route is often the best option for those already based in South America.
Important travel notes
Travel via Chile: Check with your local authorities regarding any visa requirements for travelling through Chile.
Flight schedule: The flight from Punta Arenas to the Falklands operates once a week, on Saturdays, so you may need to plan an overnight stay in Santiago, depending on your flight timing.
Required documents:
Make sure that you have the following documents with you:
- Original and copy of your passport
- Original and copy of your work permit
- Original or electronic flight tickets
In-flight and onward travel tips
In-flight entertainment is limited, so it’s a good idea to pack your own entertainment, such as books, electronic devices, and games, particularly if you are travelling with children.
Make sure that you have essential toiletries, a small towel, and a change of clothing in your hand luggage in case of delays.
By preparing all the necessary paperwork, keeping to baggage rules, and being mindful of any special travel requirements, your journey to the Falkland Islands will be smooth and efficient.