Golfers from across the globe will be touching down in Liverpool this July for The Open 2026, golf's oldest championship. Taking place at Royal Birkdale, Southport from July 12-19, this year's event will bring massive demand and congestion from international BA operators at Merseyside entry airports.

Last year's Open at Royal Portrush saw Scottie Scheffler lift the Claret Jug... And while golf enthusiasts debate whether McIlroy, Schauffele, or Rahm will beat the World No.1 and be crowned Golfer of the Year, operators are already planning their missions to Royal Birkdale.

What Operators Need to Know

The Open is one of the most congested private aviation environments in Europe. Last year, City of Derry Airport reported receiving between 50 and 60 private and corporate jets during the Open tournament week. This July, Liverpool Airport is expected to be in high demand, and ramp space is limited due expected aircraft and commercial operations.

Operators should:

Request as soon as possible to secure parking, ground handling, and security
Plan repositioning for overnight stays
Monitoring NOTAMs for event-specific restrictions close to the event

The Open 2026 Flight Operations

Entry Airport

Liverpool John Lennon Airport

ICAO: EGGP
IATA: LPL
Type: Civil, Airport of Entry (AOE)
Location: Speke, Liverpool, UK
Elevation: 80-81 ft AMSL (24-25 m)
Coordinates: 53°20′00″N, 2°50′58″W
Location: 12km from city center, 35km from Royal Birkdale

Operational Information

This AOE operates 24/7
No slots are required. PPR required at least 24 hours in advance
Parking is available
Layover is possible during The Open
Avgas 100LL and JETA1 are available, uplift confirmation is recommended during peak or GA-heavy periods
FBO availability 0800 LCL to 2000 LCL
No ground handling limitations
No night restrictions

Customs, Immigration & Security

As an Airport of Entry, Liverpool John Lennon Airport provides full customs, immigration, and quarantine (CIQ) services.

For international arrivals:

General Aviation Reports (GAR) must be filed prior to arrival and departure
Passenger and crew documentation must comply with UK Border Force requirements
Visa requirements should be verified based on nationality

Security measures are likely to be heightened due to the scale and profile of the event. Operators should expect increased screening protocols both at the airport and at the tournament venue itself.

Alternate Airports

Manchester Airport

ICAO: EGCC
IATA: MAN
Location: 47 km east of Liverpool
Type: Major international hub, minimal operational limitations, best for bizjet, and long-haul diversions

Hawarden Airport (Chester Airport)

ICAO: EGNR
IATA: CEG
Location: 18km southwest of Liverpool
Type: Regional airport, good alternate for corporate aviation

Blackpool Airport

ICAO: EGNH
IATA: BLK
Location: 40km north of Liverpool
Useful secondary alternate, especially for turboprops or lighter jets

Trip Planning Considerations

Traffic management: Road closures and event traffic systems will be in place around Southport.
Weather considerations: Coastal conditions can be variable, with potential for wind and rain impacting both flight and ground operations.
Crew planning: Ensure adequate rest arrangements will be required, particularly if operating tight turnarounds or repositioning sectors.
Passenger experience: Early coordination of tickets, hospitality access, and transport will be key to a seamless trip

With demand spanning aviation, hospitality, and local infrastructure, The Open 2026 will require careful, proactive planning across every stage of the journey. Operators who secure services early and build flexibility into their schedules will be best positioned to deliver a smooth and efficient experience.

Technology to support you

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For support with your flight operations, VIP Supervision, and ground transport and accommodation requirements for The Open, contact UAS.

For curated travel experiences to The Open 2026, contact UAS Charter.

For more operational advice, visit UAS Blog.