โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
London City Airport (LCY) operates through a single modern terminal building strategically located in the Royal Docks Borough of Newham, approximately six miles east of the City of London and three miles east of Canary Wharf, designed specifically to serve London's financial district and business community. The compact terminal features 14 gates within a streamlined layout that eliminates the need for shuttle buses or trains, with all facilities accessible within short walking distances and divided into three efficient zones: check-in area, departures lounge, and arrivals area. The facility's design emphasizes convenience for business travelers, featuring a range of shops, restaurants, and lounges appropriate for the airport's role as London's premier business aviation hub.
Major airlines operating from EGLC include British Airways (the airport's primary operator), KLM, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines, with BA CityFlyer operating Embraer E-190 aircraft on European routes and specialized services to ski resort destinations during winter months. The airport's unique operational constraints, including a 1,508-meter runway and steep 5.5ยฐ glideslope requirements, restrict operations to specially certified multi-engine aircraft up to Airbus A318 size with crew certifications for steep approach operations. Popular destinations from LCY include Amsterdam, Dublin, Edinburgh, Frankfurt, and Zurich, serving primarily business travelers accessing Europe's financial centers.
London City Airport serves as a crucial business aviation gateway, featuring a corporate terminal opened in 2002 with the London City Private Jet Centre FBO providing specialized services for executive and corporate jets. The airport's proximity to London's Docklands financial district makes it the preferred choice for business travelers, particularly those traveling to destinations like Luxembourg, Frankfurt, and other European financial centers. Ground transportation from the terminal includes the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) providing rapid connections to Central London and Canary Wharf, plus road access via the A1020, creating seamless connectivity between international business destinations and London's financial centers.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through London City Airport (LCY) is an exceptionally fast and efficient experience due to its compact, single-terminal design and focus on business travel. You will usually pass through immigration, collect your bags (if not checked through), clear customs, and then head to the first-floor departure area to re-clear security. Use a contactless credit card or Oyster card for the best fares. You must monitor the flight information screens constantly; gates are typically announced only 20 minutes before departure.
For international-to-international or international-to-domestic transfers, a connection time of 45 to 60 minutes is typically sufficientโthe fastest among Londonโs hubs. Thanks to advanced CT scanners, security wait times are often under ten minutes, and you generally do not need to remove liquids or electronics from your bag.
Ground transportation to central London is dominated by the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), which is integrated into the terminal. Official taxis are available curbside, with a ride to the City typically costing ยฃ30 to ยฃ40. Due to the short 1,508-meter runway and steep 5.5-degree approach over the Thames, LCY is served only by specialized STOL-capable aircraft like the Embraer E190 and Airbus A220-100.
However, because the terminal is small, there is no dedicated airside transit corridor for many flights. Trains depart every 7 to 10 minutes, reaching Canary Wharf in 15 minutes and the City (Bank Station) in 22 minutes. A critical tip for LCY: the airport operates a 'Silent Airport' policy, meaning there are no overhead announcements for boarding or gate changes. Arriving at the airport 60 to 90 minutes before your flight is standard, but check-in for those with hand luggage only can often be done as late as 20 to 30 minutes before departure.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Bembridge Airport (BBP) is a charming and historic unlicensed aerodrome located on the eastern tip of the Isle of Wight. Primarily serving the general aviation community, it offers a more intimate and relaxed experience compared to major mainland hubs. The airfield features a main asphalt runway and a parallel grass strip, which is particularly popular with recreational pilots during the dryer summer months. The airport's operational hours are generally restricted to daylight, with radio services provided during specific windows, making it essential for pilots to obtain Prior Permission Required (PPR) before arrival.
The focal point of the airport's social life and passenger facilities is The Propeller Inn, a traditional pub and restaurant located right next to the airfield. It offers home-cooked meals and a great vantage point for watching aircraft movements, making it a popular destination for both visiting pilots and local residents. Adjacent to the inn, the Wight Aviation Museum provides a fascinating look into the island's rich aerospace heritage, including exhibits on the locally built Britten-Norman Islander and Saunders-Roe aircraft. These facilities serve as the 'terminal' for most visitors, providing a welcoming atmosphere and essential refreshments.
Facilities at the airfield are functional and tailored to the needs of light aircraft. There are no traditional check-in desks or security gates; instead, pilots and passengers enjoy a streamlined process that emphasizes ease of access and safety. Parking is strictly controlled and typically located on the North side of the runway to ensure clear access. Visitors are reminded to follow designated pathways and avoid crossing active runways at all times. The airport's unique position near the coast and the village of Bembridge requires strict adherence to noise abatement procedures, including avoiding overflights of the residential areas to maintain positive community relations.
๐ Connection Tips
Bembridge Airport (BBP) is primarily a general aviation gateway to the Isle of Wight, meaning traditional commercial airline connections are not available on-site. For most visitors arriving via private charter or the Wingly platform, ground transportation is the primary means of connecting to the rest of the island. Local taxi services are readily available but often require pre-booking, especially during the busy summer months. A car rental service can also be arranged with prior notice, providing the most flexibility for exploring the island's scenic coastlines and inland attractions.
For those needing to connect to the UK mainland or international destinations, the journey typically involves a combination of local transport and a cross-Solent ferry. The nearest major ferry links are in Ryde (Fastcat to Portsmouth) and Fishbourne (Wightlink to Portsmouth), both within a 15-20 minute drive from the airfield. Alternatively, the Red Funnel services from East Cowes to Southampton provide access to the rail network at Southampton Central, which offers direct trains to London Waterloo and Southampton Airport (SOU). Public bus services operated by Southern Vectis serve the nearby village of Bembridge, with route 8 connecting to Sandown, Newport, and Ryde.
While the walk from the airfield to the nearest bus stop is manageable for those with light luggage, a short taxi ride is recommended for comfort. Travelers should note that the airport is unlicensed and operates under Prior Permission Required (PPR) rules, so all flight connections must be coordinated directly with the airfield management to ensure serviceability and ground support availability. Always check the weather forecast, as Isle of Wight ferry and air services can be affected by high winds or poor visibility.
โ Back to London City Airport