The UK is home to the world's shortest passenger flight, which only takes 90 seconds.

When we travel, we all wish we could magically transport ourselves to our destination with the snap of our fingers. But on the world's shortest plane route, that dream is almost a reality. While the longest flight in the world can take a grueling 19 hours, the shortest route takes only two minutes. Yes, you read that right, just two minutes. It's hard to believe, but it's true.

This incredibly short journey connects two remote Scottish islands, Westray and Papa Westray, in the Orkney archipelago. It's a small distance of just 1.7 miles, which is about the same length as the runway at Edinburgh Airport. And before most planes even reach their cruising altitude, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes, the flight is already over. The route has been in operation since 1967 by the regional airline Loganair, running daily except on Saturdays.

But even on such a short flight, there is a record to beat. The quickest recorded flight time between Westray and Papa Westray is an astonishing 53 seconds. It was achieved by Loganair pilot Stuart Linklater, who flew this route over 12,000 times before retiring in 2013. This route is part of an intra-island service that connects the North Isles of Orkney to Kirkwall, the largest town in the archipelago and the main travel hub. The journey includes a quick 90-second flight before reaching Kirkwall.

Aside from being a critical link between the islands, this flight has also become a popular tourist attraction. Aviation enthusiasts from all over the world come to experience this unique journey, bringing in more visitors to the islands. And it's no surprise, as these remote islands have a lot to offer. Papa Westray, also known as Papay, has stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and a rich history, with ancient stone circles and Viking ruins to explore. With a population of just around 90 people, it's one of the smallest islands in Orkney, measuring only four miles long and one mile wide.

One of the must-see sites on Papa Westray is the Knap of Howar, a Neolithic farmstead that may be the oldest preserved stone house in Northern Europe. It's described as "astonishing" and a "magical place" by those who have visited. And on the larger island of Westray, with a population of 600 residents and spanning 28 square miles, you'll find breathtaking cliff landscapes, deserted beaches, and historical sites like the 16th century Noltland Castle. One reviewer on Tripadvisor even described it as a "fabulous ruin" and a hidden gem worth visiting.

Despite being a popular tourist destination, tickets for this flight are quite affordable, with a one-way trip costing only £17 on Loganair's website. Alternatively, there is a ferry that operates between the islands twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, for £2.95. However, the journey takes much longer, about one hour and 45 minutes. So, if you're planning to visit these beautiful Scottish islands, the quick flight is definitely the way to go.

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