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London City Airport LCY Airport Traveler Guide

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LCY Airport Insights & Guide

Key LCY Airport Topics:

Getting to Know LCY Airport

Discover London City Airport (LCY), your direct link to London's vibrant heart. Uniquely positioned within the city itself, LCY offers an unparalleled proximity to London's business and cultural hubs, making it a top pick for both business travelers and city explorers. Our concise guide equips you with everything from flight details to terminal information, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Explore our Comprehensive Airport Guide for a hassle-free journey through LCY, including insider tips on navigating the airport's unique riverside runway.

iFly Tip: Get tips on handling special items and avoid hassles with our baggage information resource.

The airport has only one terminal with 14 gates. The terminal is divided into three zones: the Check-in area, Departures Lounge, and Arrivals area. The Check-in area is located on the ground floor and is where passengers can check-in for their flights. The Departures Lounge is on the first floor and is where passengers can access the shops, restaurants, and lounges. The Arrivals area is on the ground floor and is where passengers can collect their baggage and exit the airport.

Major airlines that operate at LCY include British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines. These airlines operate from gates located in the Departures Lounge.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

London City Airport has only one terminal, making it easy for travelers to navigate. All gates and facilities are located within a short walking distance from each other, so there is no need for shuttle buses or trains. The terminal is compact and modern, with a range of shops, restaurants, and lounges to suit all needs and preferences.

Tips from LCY Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at London City Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from LCY-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"London City Airport's single terminal is a breeze to navigate. I always recommend arriving a bit early to enjoy the views from the Departures Lounge. It's compact, so you won't need to worry about long walks between gates." — Oliver S., Greenwich, December 2023

"If you're connecting through LCY, rest assured that the process is seamless. With everything in one terminal, you just need to follow the signs, and you'll be at your gate in no time." — Emma J., Stratford, May 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is the fastest way to get to central London. It's reliable and drops you right in the heart of the city. Avoid peak hours if you can to get a seat!" — James T., Canary Wharf, February 2024

"For a stress-free ride, I usually book a taxi ahead of time. It costs a bit more but saves me the hassle of waiting, especially during busy hours." — Sarah L., Poplar, July 2024

Parking

"If you're picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It's free for the first 10 minutes and just a short drive from the terminal, which is super convenient." — Tom B., Hackney, March 2024

"For long-term parking, I recommend checking out the off-airport options. They often have shuttle services and can be more economical than on-site parking." — Alice R., Barking, September 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss grabbing a coffee at Caffè Nero before your flight. It's a great spot to relax before boarding, and the staff is always friendly." — David K., Woolwich, January 2024

"If you're looking for a last-minute gift, Harrods has a fantastic selection of luxury items. It's a bit pricey, but the quality is worth it." — Priya N., Newham, June 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check your flight status on the airline's app before heading to the airport. It saves you from unnecessary waiting if there are any delays." — Mark W., Lewisham, October 2024

"I always opt for early morning flights to avoid the rush. LCY is less crowded then, and security checks are faster." — Sophie M., Ilford, April 2024

iFly Tip: Avoid the stress of airport security by learning about common errors travelers make.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

LCY Airport offers several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are dropping off a passenger, there is a designated drop-off area located directly outside the terminal building. However, please note that there is a strict time limit of 10 minutes for drop-offs, and vehicles must not be left unattended at any time.

If you are picking up a passenger, there are several options available. Curbside parking is not permitted at the airport, so you will need to use the short-stay car park. The first 10 minutes are free, and after that, charges apply. Alternatively, you can use the cell-phone waiting area, which is located just a few minutes' drive from the terminal. This area allows you to wait in your car until your passenger is ready to be picked up, without having to pay for parking.

Parking Facilities & Options

London City Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminal building, making it easy to park and go. The airport also offers a cell phone waiting area for those picking up passengers, located just a short drive away from the terminal.

For those in need of handicapped parking, there are designated spaces available in all of the airport's parking lots and garages. These spaces are located close to the terminal building and are easily accessible.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near London LCY Airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal without breaking the bank.

Transportation Options

LCY Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to suit the needs of all travelers:

  • Car Rentals: Car rental facilities are available at LCY Airport, with major providers such as Avis, Europcar, and Hertz offering their services. The car rental desks can be found in the main terminal building. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are readily available, with designated drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. Fares vary depending on the destination, and it is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey. The average fare to central London is approximately £40-£50, and the travel time is around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
  • Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft can be accessed from the designated pickup areas outside the terminal building. These services offer a more affordable option, but it is important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed in the vehicle.
  • Airport Shuttles: Several shuttle companies offer their services at LCY Airport. Pickup areas can be found outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination and the number of passengers. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
  • Public Transportation: The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) connects the airport to various destinations in London. The DLR station is located in the airport terminal, providing a convenient and efficient way to reach central London and other areas. Fares can be purchased at the station, with prices starting at £3.30 for a single journey to central London. The travel time to Bank station in central London is approximately 22 minutes.

iFly Tip: Find out how major airline hubs enhance your flight experience.

Airport Hotels

Are you looking for a comfortable stay near the airport during your trip? We have compiled a list of hotels that are not only located near the airport but also offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From luxury stays to budget-friendly options, there is something for every traveler. Some hotels are located just a stone's throw away from the airport, while others are nestled in the heart of the city, giving you easy access to famous landmarks and attractions. Check out our comprehensive guide on Airport Hotels to find the perfect accommodation for your needs.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at London LCY Airport, you're in luck. There are plenty of dining and shopping options available to suit every taste and budget. For a quick snack or coffee, head to Pret A Manger or Caffè Nero, both located in the Departures area. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, try Pilots Bar & Kitchen, which offers a range of British and international dishes, or Brick Lane Brews, which serves up craft beers and street food-inspired snacks.

For shopping, there are several options available, including WHSmith for books and magazines, Boots for health and beauty products, and Dixons Travel for electronics. If you're looking for luxury goods, head to the Harrods store, which offers a range of designer fashion, accessories, and gifts.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at LCY can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: London City Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is available for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, London City Airport features designated children's play areas.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the departure lounge. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at London City Airport. One of the most common ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

In addition to FIDS, passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Many airlines have their own mobile apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications about flight status updates. Passengers can also opt to receive text or email notifications about flight status updates.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at London LCY Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: London City Airport (LCY) is located in the United Kingdom, in the heart of London's financial district.
  • Terminals: The airport has a single terminal building that handles all flights.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including British Airways, KLM, and Lufthansa. For a list of all airlines, check out the LCY Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: London City Airport handles approximately 5 million passengers annually, with around 15,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 300 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from LCY are Amsterdam, Dublin, Edinburgh, Frankfurt, and Zurich.
  • Hub Status: London City Airport is primarily used by business travelers and serves as a hub for British Airways, CityJet, and Flybe.

Airport History

London LCY Airport, located in the heart of London, has a rich history dating back to the early 1980s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1981 - The idea for a new airport in London's Docklands is proposed.
  • 1986 - Construction of the airport begins.
  • 1987 - The first flight, operated by Brymon Airways, takes off from LCY.
  • 1995 - The airport is sold to a consortium of investors.
  • 2002 - LCY Airport undergoes a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building.
  • 2005 - The airport is sold to Global Infrastructure Partners.
  • 2012 - the airport celebrates its 25th anniversary.
  • 2016 - The airport is granted planning permission for a £344m expansion project.
  • 2020 - London City Airport temporarily suspends commercial flights due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today, London LCY Airport is a bustling hub for business and leisure travelers, offering flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about London City Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: LCY
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +44 (0)20 7646 0000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: London City Airport, Royal Docks, London, E16 2PX, United Kingdom

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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London City Airport Q&A

The airport has a single terminal, which makes navigation straightforward and efficient.
The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is the most efficient way, offering direct connections to central London with frequent service.
Yes, there are several hotels located near the airport, offering a range of amenities and price points for travelers.
The airport offers short-stay and long-stay parking options, as well as a cell phone waiting area for those picking up passengers.
Yes, major car rental providers like Avis, Europcar, and Hertz have desks within the main terminal building.
Dining options include Pret A Manger for quick bites and Pilots Bar & Kitchen for a sit-down meal, among others.
Major airlines include British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines.
Yes, the airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
Flight status can be checked via in-airport displays, airline mobile apps, or the ifly.com departures page.
Options include taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation via the DLR.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport