It is owned by Shetland Island's Council and was operated by Serco on behalf of the aerodrome licensee BP (Exploration).

In November 1944 Scatsta was used as a support base and diversion point for Lancasters from 617 squadron, the famous "Dam Busters", led by Wing Commander J.

After World War II Scatsta Aerodrome lay dormant except for the landing of a US Coast Guard HC-130 Hercules on 24 May 1969, in connection with the LORAN navigation station which had been established at the north west end of runway 13/31.

The only fixed wing route operating regularly from Scatsta was a shuttle to and from Aberdeen, to ferry offshore crew to Scatsta for onward travel via helicopter to oil platforms, and also mainland workers at the Sullom Voe Terminal commonly working either a 2-week on/off shift or 10 days on 4 days off rota.

On 4 March 2020, the integrated contract was awarded to Babcock MCS who intended to use Sumburgh Airport in the south of Shetland.