If you’re flying in or out of London and want to avoid the crowds, long walks, and general chaos of bigger airports, London City Airport (LCY) might just be your perfect match. Tucked just 6 miles east of central London, it’s a favourite for frequent flyers—especially business travellers—and anyone looking to get in and out of the city quickly.
Whether you’re new to LCY or just want a quick refresher, here’s a down-to-earth guide that covers everything from how to get there to what you’ll find inside.
Why London City Airport Makes Sense
Let’s be honest—most airports are a bit of a headache. But London City is different. It’s small, smart, and designed with speed in mind. Here’s why people love it:
- It’s close to the action – You’re just a quick 20-30 minute ride from the financial district, Canary Wharf, and other key parts of East and Central London.
- One terminal, no fuss – Unlike Heathrow or Gatwick, there’s no trekking between terminals. Everything’s under one roof.
- Quick in, quick out – Fewer passengers mean shorter queues. Security checks, baggage reclaim, and boarding all move faster here.
Getting To and From LCY
There are a few solid options to get you to (or away from) London City Airport:
🚆 Docklands Light Railway (DLR)
Easily the most popular option. The DLR drops you right at the airport’s doorstep. Hop on from Bank or Stratford, and you’re there in under half an hour. Plus, it’s step-free, which is great if you’ve got luggage or mobility concerns.
🚆 Elizabeth Line
Not directly at LCY, but Custom House station (on the Elizabeth Line) is just a short DLR trip away. This line connects to Heathrow, Paddington, Liverpool Street, and more.
🚌 Local Buses
Buses 473 and 474 connect the airport to nearby areas like Canning Town, Stratford, and North Woolwich. A solid option if you’re on a budget or heading somewhere local.
🚗 Minicabs, Black Cabs & Ride Apps
Want door-to-door service? Minicabs, Black Cabs, and apps like Uber or Bolt are all available. They’re ideal if you’ve got loads of bags, kids, or just want a smooth ride straight home.
Tip: Book your minicab in advance for peace of mind and possibly a better rate.
🚘 Driving Yourself?
There’s parking, but note: LCY is in the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone). If your car doesn’t meet the emissions standards, you’ll have to pay a charge.
Parking Options at London City
Driving in? Here’s what to expect:
- Short Stay: Right next to the terminal. Handy for quick drop-offs or weekend breaks.
- Long Stay: Better for week-long or longer trips. A little further out but still easy to access.
- Valet/Meet & Greet service: The most hassle-free. Pull up, hand over the keys, and walk in.
Tip: Always pre-book online if you can. It’s usually cheaper.
What to Expect Inside the Terminal
Though it’s a small airport, LCY still manages to pack in useful features.
✈️ Check-In Options
- Online check-in is the fastest way—usually opens 24 hours before your flight.
- Self-service kiosks are in the terminal for printing your boarding pass.
- Desk check-in typically opens 2 hours before your flight.
Flying early? Some airlines offer overnight bag drop, so you can ditch your luggage the night before and breeze through in the morning.
🔐 Security
Generally fast-moving. They’ve introduced high-tech scanners, so in many cases, you don’t need to remove laptops or liquids (though it depends on your airline). Always check the latest rules before you go.
Shops, Food & Facilities
You won’t find huge shopping malls here, but the essentials are covered.
🛍️ Shopping
- WHSmith: For snacks, drinks, and magazines.
- Duty-Free & Luxury: Perfumes, spirits, chocolates—you know the drill.
- Gassan Diamonds: Fancy a splurge?
☕ Food & Drink
Before and after security, you’ll find a few decent options:
- Pret A Manger: Grab-and-go sandwiches and coffee.
- Trattoria: Pasta and breakfast options.
- Brick Lane Brews: Good coffee and salt beef sandwiches.
- The City Bar: Great if you want a sit-down meal and a pint.
💡 Other Perks
- Free WiFi throughout the terminal.
- Charging points for your devices.
- Post boxes and ATMs on-site.
- Shoe shine service – Yep, a nice old-school touch if it’s available when you’re there.
Help & Accessibility
LCY takes accessibility seriously. Here’s how they support passengers who need a little extra help:
- Step-free access from train to plane.
- Mobility aids and wheelchairs available on request.
- Assistance dogs welcome (just notify in advance).
- Familiarisation sessions for autistic travellers—these can be booked ahead to get used to the airport environment.
If you need help, speak to the staff or email assistance@londoncityairport.com ahead of time.
Who Flies From London City?
Despite being small, LCY covers some key routes—mostly around the UK and Europe.
Here are some of the airlines you’ll likely see:
- British Airways (Cityflyer): Most flights, including domestic and European cities.
- KLM: Amsterdam (and beyond).
- Lufthansa & SWISS: Frankfurt, Zurich, and Geneva.
- Luxair & LOT: Luxembourg, Vilnius.
- ITA Airways: Rome, Milan.
- Aer Lingus, Loganair, Aurigny: Ireland and Channel Islands.
Always double-check your airline’s website for the latest flight info.
Handy Tips Before You Go
- Arrive about 90 mins before your flight. You usually don’t need more time than that here.
- Watch the screens – LCY often doesn’t announce gates over the speaker, so keep your eyes peeled.
- Bag drop closes 30 minutes before take-off, so don’t cut it too fine.
London City Airport isn’t flashy, but that’s kind of the point. It’s efficient, compact, and stress-free—especially when paired with a reliable minicab ride to or from the terminal.
Whether you’re heading off on business or taking a quick European getaway, LCY helps you skip the hassle and keep your travel experience smooth from start to finish.
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