Can I use my bus pass on Edinburgh Airport buses?

Airlink - Edinburgh airport to the city centre Contactless, Lothian Buses Ridacards and Scottish National Concession passes can be used on Airlink. City singles and Day tickets are not valid on Airlink.



Yes, you can use your National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Scottish National Concessionary Travel Scheme bus pass on most public buses to and from Edinburgh Airport, but there are important details and exceptions to be aware of.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. Lothian Buses Services (Public Buses)

This is the key area where your pass is valid: Airlink 100: Yes, you can use your pass. This is the express bus between the city centre (Waverley Bridge) and the airport. Your pass grants you free travel. Skylink 200, 300, & 400: Yes, you can use your pass. These are other public bus services connecting different parts of the city (like Ocean Terminal, Fort Kinnaird, or Livingston) to the airport. Your pass grants free travel.

How it works: Simply tap your card on the card reader when you board. The driver will see it’s a concession pass. Travel is free at all times (no time restrictions for airport services).

2. Private Airport Express Coaches

Your bus pass is NOT valid on these dedicated coach services: Edinburgh Trams: The tram service from the airport to the city centre is not part of the bus concession scheme. You must purchase a separate ticket. Hotel Hoppa or other private shuttle buses: Services operated by specific hotels or private companies do not accept the concessionary pass.

Important Summary & Tips

  • Valid On: Lothian Buses public services (Airlink 100, Sk

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60 and over The NEC card entitles you to free bus travel across Scotland, and also on trams if your card was issued by the City of Edinburgh Council.

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The card gives holders free bus travel in Scotland and, through the Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Scheme, reduced fares on trains and Subway in the Strathclyde area. If you live on an island or peninsula within Strathclyde you can also receive reduced ferry fares with a Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Ferry Card.

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Some local councils offer over-60 and disabled people free or discounted train travel. Visit the National Rail Enquiries website to check if this is available in your area. Only holders of National Entitlement Cards can get concessionary train travel. Visit Transport Scotland to find out how to apply.

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Scottish ITSO Smartcards Depending on the operator, tickets can be loaded onto your chosen ITSO smartcard at ticket offices, ticket vending machines, on board or in advance online and can be paid for with cash, card or contactless.

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