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London City Airport LCY

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LCY Airport Insights & Guide

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Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Maura Huntz
Updated:

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Key LCY Airport Topics:

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at London City Airport (LCY) 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 is compact, which means shorter walking distances. Make sure to check the terminal map before you arrive. The layout is straightforward, with clear signage, but knowing where your gate is in advance can save you time." — John D., Greenwich, London, July 2023

"If you’re flying during peak hours, the security lines can get quite busy. Arrive early and use the Fast Track option if you can. It’s worth the extra cost to avoid the stress." — Emily R., Canary Wharf, London, August 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The DLR (Docklands Light Railway) is the most efficient way to get to and from London City Airport. It connects directly to the London Underground, making it easy to reach central London. Avoid taxis during rush hour to save time and money." — Ahmed K., Stratford, London, September 2023

"If you’re carrying heavy luggage, consider using the airport’s porter service. It’s a small fee, but it makes navigating the DLR much easier, especially during busy times." — Priya M., Isle of Dogs, London, October 2023

Parking

"London City Airport offers several parking options, but the on-site parking can fill up quickly. Pre-book your parking spot online to ensure you have a space and to save money." — Michael T., Poplar, London, November 2023

"If you’re picking someone up, use the short-stay car park. It’s conveniently located and allows you to wait comfortably until your passenger arrives." — Sophie L., Canning Town, London, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"The food and shopping options at LCY are excellent for a smaller airport. Check out the local eateries for a quick bite before your flight. There’s also a decent selection of shops for last-minute purchases." — Daniel H., Hackney, London, January 2024

"The business lounge is a great place to relax if you have some time before your flight. It offers complimentary snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi, making it worth the entry fee if you’re not already a member." — Rachel S., Shoreditch, London, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check the wait times for security online before you leave for the airport. This can help you plan your arrival time more accurately and avoid unnecessary stress." — Oliver W., Bow, London, March 2024

"Travel light if possible. London City Airport is efficient, but having less baggage makes it easier to navigate quickly, especially during peak times." — Hannah P., Woolwich, London, April 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information displays. Delays can happen, but staying informed will help you adjust your plans accordingly and reduce stress." — Liam B., Deptford, London, May 2024

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

Helpful Tips & Resources

Is London, West Sussex Airport (LCY) airport a bit unfamiliar to you? Look no further than iFly.com for insightful tips and advice. Read on!

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.

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.

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).

About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.

London City Airport Q&A

The airport has only one terminal with 14 gates.
The check-in area is located on the ground floor of the terminal.
You can use the short-stay car park, where the first 10 minutes are free, or the cell-phone waiting area located a few minutes' drive from the terminal.
Yes, there are several parking lots and garages within walking distance of the terminal, as well as a cell phone waiting area.
Options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR).
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport offering a range of amenities to suit different budgets and preferences.
Dining options include Pret A Manger, Caffè Nero, Pilots Bar & Kitchen, and Brick Lane Brews.
Yes, the airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
You can check flight status information via in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or the flight departures page on ifly.com.
Major airlines include British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport