London City Airport Travelers Guide: Tips and Information for a Smooth Journey

London City Airport Travelers Guide

London City Airport is one of the most convenient travel hubs in the UK, offering a range of domestic and international flights to various destinations. For those planning to travel through London City Airport, it is important to have a comprehensive guide to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

This London City Airport Travelers Guide provides all the necessary information that travelers need to know before they arrive at the airport. This includes public health requirements, restrictions on re-entering the UK, and any requirements that airlines might have.

The guide also provides information on the easiest way to travel to London City Airport and how to find affordable airport parking.

In addition, the guide offers a comprehensive guide to visiting the airport, including information on the airport’s facilities, such as restaurants, shops, and lounges.

It also provides information on the airport’s destinations, including major cities in Europe and the UK. By using this guide, travelers can make the most of their time at London City Airport and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.

Location of London City Airport

London City Airport is located in the heart of London, just 9.5km (6 miles) east of central London and 4.8km (3 miles) from Canary Wharf. It is the only airport actually in London, making it a convenient choice for travelers who want to reach the city center quickly.

The airport is situated on a former dockyard in the Royal Docks area of Newham, East London. It is adjacent to the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), which provides fast and frequent services to the city center and beyond. The journey time to Bank station is just 22 minutes, while Poplar (connecting to Canary Wharf) and Stratford International (for the Olympic Village) are just 14 and 17 minutes away, respectively.

In addition to the DLR, London City Airport is also easily accessible by road, with good connections to the M25, M11, A406 North Circular and A13. The airport offers short and long-term parking options, as well as a drop-off and pick-up area for passengers.

London City Airport’s location also makes it a convenient choice for business travelers, as it is close to the financial district of Canary Wharf and the ExCeL London exhibition center. The airport’s proximity to the River Thames also means that it is possible to reach central London by boat, with regular services from nearby Woolwich Arsenal Pier.

Overall, London City Airport’s central location and excellent transport links make it a popular choice for travelers visiting London for business or leisure.

Transport Links

London City Airport has several transport links available for travelers. These include public transport options such as buses, trains, and the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), as well as driving and parking options.

Public Transport

The DLR is the most convenient and quickest way to get to and from London City Airport. It connects the airport to central London, with trains running every 8-15 minutes. The journey time to Bank station in the City of London is just 22 minutes. The DLR also connects to other parts of London, such as Canary Wharf, Greenwich, and Stratford.

Bus services are also available from the airport. Local bus 473 links London City Airport to Stratford and North Woolwich, while buses 300 and 474 serve Canning Town. A single bus ride costs £1.50, but it’s worth noting you can no longer pay for buses with cash, only a contactless payment card or Oyster card.

Trains are another option for travelers, with the airport being served by the nearby Woolwich Arsenal station. From here, travelers can take the Southeastern train service to London Bridge, Charing Cross, and other destinations.

Driving and Parking

London City Airport is within the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ), so drivers may need to pay the ULEZ charge if their vehicle does not meet emissions standards. The airport has several car parks available for travelers, with both short-stay and long-stay options. Pre-booking is recommended to ensure availability and to save money.

For those who prefer to use a taxi or ride-hailing service, London City Airport has a dedicated pick-up and drop-off area located outside the terminal building. However, it’s worth noting that there may be additional charges for using these services.

Overall, travelers to London City Airport have a range of transport links available to them, with options to suit every budget and preference.

Airport Facilities

London City Airport has a variety of facilities to make your travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. There are plenty of options for dining, shopping, and relaxation.

Restaurants and Shops

Passengers can enjoy a range of dining options at London City Airport. From quick bites to sit-down meals, there is something for everyone. Passengers can grab a coffee or snack at one of the many cafes, such as Panopolis or Pret A Manger. For a more substantial meal, there are restaurants like Pilots Bar and Kitchen, which offers a range of dishes including burgers, salads, and sandwiches.

In addition to dining options, London City Airport has a variety of shops to explore. Passengers can browse the latest fashion at stores like Accessorize and Hugo Boss or pick up a souvenir at the WHSmith. There are also duty-free shops, such as World Duty Free, where passengers can purchase items like perfume, cosmetics, and alcohol.

Lounge and Business Facilities

For passengers looking for a more exclusive experience, London City Airport has a range of lounges and business facilities. The airport’s lounges offer a comfortable and relaxing environment where passengers can enjoy complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and other amenities. The lounges include the City Lounge, which is open to all passengers, and the First Class Lounge, which is available to passengers flying in first class or business class.

For business travellers, London City Airport has a range of facilities to help them stay productive while on the go. The airport has a business centre where passengers can access computers, printers, and other office equipment. There are also meeting rooms available for hire, which come equipped with audiovisual equipment and Wi-Fi.

Security and Check-In Procedures

London City Airport takes security very seriously, and all passengers are required to follow strict procedures to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Here’s what you need to know about the security and check-in procedures at London City Airport:

Check-In Procedures

There are three ways to check-in at London City Airport, all of which become available two hours before your scheduled departure time. Passengers can use the check-in desks or self-service kiosks in the main Terminal building on the ground floor, or they can use the online check-in facility on their airline’s website.

It is important to note that passengers must have their boarding pass and any necessary travel documents, such as a passport or visa, before they proceed to security. Failure to have the correct documentation may result in delays or even missed flights.

Security Procedures

When passengers reach London City Airport’s Security area, an officer will check their hand baggage and clothing to see whether they have any dangerous or banned goods with them. Passengers must remove all electronic devices larger than a mobile phone from their hand luggage and place them in a separate tray for screening.

Passengers must also remove any liquids, aerosols, and gels from their hand luggage and place them in a clear, plastic bag for screening. The bag must be no larger than one litre and must be sealed.

In addition, passengers must remove their shoes, belts, and jackets and place them in a separate tray for screening. Passengers may also be asked to remove any metal items, such as watches and jewellery, before proceeding through the metal detector.

Passengers with medical conditions or disabilities are advised to inform the security officer before proceeding through the screening process. This will help ensure that they receive any necessary assistance and that their screening is conducted in a manner that is sensitive to their needs.

Overall, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport well in advance of their scheduled departure time to allow sufficient time for check-in and security procedures. By following these procedures, passengers can help ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Airline Information

London City Airport is serviced by several airlines, including British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, and Flybe. Each airline has its own policies and procedures, so it is important to check with the airline before arriving at the airport to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Passengers should check their airline’s website for specific information on baggage allowances, check-in times, and any other requirements. Some airlines offer online check-in, which can save time and hassle at the airport.

It is also important to note that not all airlines fly to the same destinations from London City Airport. Passengers should check their airline’s website or the airport’s website for a list of destinations served by each airline.

Passengers with connecting flights should also check with their airline for information on connecting flights and baggage transfer policies. Some airlines offer through check-in for connecting flights, while others require passengers to collect their baggage and re-check it for their connecting flight.

Overall, passengers should ensure they are familiar with their airline’s policies and procedures to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Special Assistance Services

London City Airport offers Special Assistance Services to passengers who require extra support to use the airport. These services are designed to help passengers with disabilities or special needs, and they are available at every stage of the journey.

Passengers can request Special Assistance Services when booking their flight or by contacting the airport directly. The airport’s trained team can provide assistance with getting to and from points of onward travel, such as taxis, car parks, DLR, or other public transport.

Passengers can also obtain a sunflower lanyard, which indicates to airport staff that they require extra assistance. The lanyard is available free of charge and can be requested by contacting the airport’s Special Assistance team.

The airport provides a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or special needs. These include:

  • Accessible toilets and changing facilities
  • Wheelchair assistance
  • Induction loops for passengers with hearing aids
  • Braille signage
  • Assistance dogs

Passengers are advised to contact the airport’s Special Assistance team in advance to arrange any special requirements they may have. This will help ensure that their journey through the airport is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

For more information on Special Assistance Services at London City Airport, including how to request assistance and details of the services provided by airlines, please visit the airport’s Special Assistance page.

Frequently Asked Questions

London City Airport is a busy airport, serving millions of passengers every year. As such, travelers may have questions about the airport, its facilities, and the services it offers. Here are some frequently asked questions about London City Airport:

Can I use the self-service check-in kiosks?

Yes, London City Airport has self-service check-in kiosks that allow passengers to check-in for their flights quickly and easily. These kiosks are located throughout the airport and can be used by passengers who have already checked in online or who need to check in at the airport.

Do I need a passport to travel?

Yes, passengers traveling from London City Airport will need a valid passport to travel. Passports should be valid for the duration of the trip, and passengers should ensure that they have any necessary visas or other travel documents before they travel.

What do I do about a lost item on the aircraft?

If you lose an item on the aircraft, you should contact the airline as soon as possible. The airline will be able to advise you on the best course of action and may be able to help you recover your lost item.

Can I take liquids with me through security?

Passengers are allowed to take a limited amount of liquids through security at London City Airport. The rules state that liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less and must be placed in a clear, plastic bag. Passengers are advised to check the airport’s website for more information on the liquids rules before they travel.

Are there shower facilities at the airport?

Yes, London City Airport has shower facilities that can be used by passengers. These facilities are located in the departures lounge and can be accessed by paying a fee.

Is there a transfer area at the airport?

Yes, London City Airport has a transfer area that can be used by passengers who are connecting to another flight. Passengers should check with their airline to see if they need to transfer at the airport and to find out more information about the transfer process.

Contact Information

Travellers who need to get in touch with London City Airport can do so through a variety of channels. The airport’s website provides a comprehensive list of contact information for different services and companies, including phone numbers and email addresses.

For general enquiries, travellers can call the airport’s main switchboard at +44 (0)20 7646 0000. The switchboard is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Travellers can also send an email to Customer Services at customerservices@londoncityairport.com.

For enquiries related to car parking, travellers can call the car park reservation line at +44 (0)20 7646 0088. The car park reservation line is available from 8am to 8pm every day. Travellers can also make a car parking reservation online through the airport’s website.

Travellers who need to contact a specific airline can find the airline’s contact information on the airport’s website. The website provides a list of all airlines that operate at London City Airport, along with their phone numbers and email addresses.

In addition to phone and email, travellers can also contact London City Airport through social media. The airport has active accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where travellers can ask questions and receive updates on airport news and events.

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