Why Is London Called Luton Airport?

By Alice Nichols

Are you curious about why London’s fourth busiest airport, Luton Airport, is not named after the city itself? Let’s dive into the history of this airport and uncover the reason behind its name.

The Origins of Luton Airport

Luton Airport is located in Bedfordshire, approximately 35 miles north of London. It was first opened in 1938 as a municipal airport for the town of Luton. During World War II, it was used as a base for the Royal Air Force and played a crucial role in defending Britain from German attacks.

After the war, Luton Airport resumed civilian use and underwent several expansions to accommodate more passengers. In the 1980s, it became a hub for low-cost airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair, which contributed to its rapid growth. Today, it serves over 16 million passengers annually and offers flights to over 150 destinations worldwide.

Why is it called Luton Airport?

Despite being located relatively close to London, Luton Airport is not named after the capital city. Instead, it takes its name from the nearby town of Luton.

Luton is a historic market town that has been around since at least the 6th century. It was an important center for hat-making during the Industrial Revolution and played a significant role in Britain’s aviation industry. Many aircraft manufacturers were based in or near Luton, including Vickers-Armstrongs (later known as British Aerospace) and Handley Page Aircraft Company.

Given its strong ties to aviation and proximity to Luton, it made sense for the airport to be named after the town rather than London. Moreover, London already had several other airports at that time (Heathrow, Gatwick, etc.), so naming another airport after London might have caused confusion.

The Benefits of Flying from Luton Airport

While Luton Airport may not be as well-known as Heathrow or Gatwick, it has several advantages that make it a popular choice for travelers.

For one, Luton Airport is less congested than other London airports, which means shorter lines and wait times. It also offers a wide range of destinations and airlines, including budget carriers like Wizz Air and Blue Air. Additionally, Luton Airport has convenient transportation links to London and other nearby cities, making it easy to get to and from the airport.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Luton Airport is named after the town of Luton rather than London due to its historic ties to aviation and proximity to the airport. While it may not have the same name recognition as other London airports, it offers several benefits for travelers and continues to play an important role in Britain’s aviation industry.

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