If you’re planning a trip to London, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is which airport to fly into. London is a major city with multiple airports, each with its own pros and cons. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how many airports are in London and what you should know about them.
London’s Major Airports
There are six major airports in the London area, each serving different parts of the city and varying in size:
- Heathrow Airport: Located west of London, Heathrow is the busiest airport in the UK and the sixth busiest in the world. With four terminals and flights to over 190 destinations worldwide, it’s a popular choice for long-haul flights.
- Gatwick Airport: South of London, Gatwick has two terminals and serves over 200 destinations globally. It’s known for its low-cost carriers and is a popular choice for European travel.
- Stansted Airport: North-east of London, Stansted is popular for budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet.
It has one terminal and serves over 170 destinations throughout Europe.
- Luton Airport: North-west of London, Luton is another budget airline hub with flights to over 100 destinations across Europe. It has one terminal.
- London City Airport: Located east of central London in the Docklands area, City Airport is small but convenient for business travelers heading into the city center. It has one terminal and serves mostly regional European destinations.
- Southend Airport: Located east of London near Southend-on-Sea, this small airport mostly serves budget airlines flying to European destinations.
Other Airports in the London Area
In addition to these major airports, there are a few other smaller airports in the London area that you may come across:
- Biggin Hill Airport: Used mainly for private and business aviation, this airport is located south of London.
- Farnborough Airport: Another private and business aviation airport, Farnborough is located southwest of London near the town of Farnborough.
- Northolt Airport: This small airport is used mainly for military and government flights, but also serves some private charters. It’s located west of London near the town of Northolt.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip
With so many airports in the London area, it can be confusing to choose which one to fly into. The best option for you will depend on a few factors:
- Your budget: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton are good choices.
- Your destination: If you’re flying long-haul or to destinations outside of Europe, Heathrow is likely your best bet. For regional European travel or business trips into central London, City Airport may be more convenient.
- Your schedule: Some airports have more frequent flights than others, so if you have specific travel dates in mind, check which airports have flights available when you need them.
In Conclusion
London has six major airports and a few smaller ones that serve different parts of the city and cater to different types of travelers. When planning your trip to London, consider your budget, destination, and schedule to choose the airport that’s right for you. With so many options, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and gets your London adventure off to a great start.