How to Get to London City Airport – Complete Guide

London City Airport (LCY) may be one of the UK’s smallest airports, but frequent flyers swear by its speed and convenience. Tucked into East London’s Royal Docks, LCY feels more like a private terminal than a major hub. It’s especially popular with business travelers and anyone who appreciates short walking distances, fast security, and quick check-ins. If you’re after a no-fuss travel experience, this is the airport for you.

This updated 2025 guide explains how to get to London City Airport, which transport method is easiest, taxi costs, airlines, destinations, airport facilities, and answers to every commonly searched query. Travelers often ask:

Where is London City Airport located?

Is London City Airport in the congestion zone?

Is London City Airport in the ULEZ zone?

Let’s clear up the common questions:

You’ll find the London City Airport in the Royal Docks, within the Borough of Newham in East London, a few miles from Canary Wharf and roughly 10 km (6 miles) east of the city's financial district. Hartmann Road, London, E16 2PX, UK. 

No, London City Airport is outside the congestion zone. This means that drivers who drive straight to or from the airport will not be charged the congestion fee; however, they will be charged if they enter the congestion zone at any other time. 

Yes, LCY (London City Airport) is within the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone). If you're planning to drive, make sure your vehicle meets London’s standards—many drivers don’t realize they owe the £12.50 fee until it shows up in the post days later. A quick check online can save you a headache (and a fine). Even short trips within the zone are charged, though if your car stays parked and unused, no fee applies.

How to Get to London City Airport

There are several ways to get to London City Airport. Here are some faster and more convenient than others.

1. The Easiest & Most Convenient: A Private Taxi or Car Hire

If you’re on a tight schedule or just prefer avoiding the Tube shuffle, London Airport Taxi might be your best bet. One frequent flyer told me they always budget for a cab—“I’d rather pay £40 than wrestle with luggage on the Jubilee line at 7 AM.” Hard to argue with that.

Why Taxi Is the Best Option:

• Direct door-to-door travel  

• No transfers (unlike Tube + DLR)  

• Comfortable for families, elderly, or business travellers  

• Available 24/7  

• Faster during early mornings or late nights  

• Avoids the hassle of changing lines  

Average Taxi Prices to London City Airport

2. DLR (Docklands Light Railway)

The DLR is a fast, reliable way to reach the airport, stopping right outside the terminal.

Tip: The transfer at Canning Town is quick and straightforward, with clear signage. Most travelers find the DLR ride to the airport surprisingly scenic, especially as you pass through Docklands.

3. Tube (London Underground)

There’s no Tube station directly at LCY, but you can easily reach it by connecting to the DLR.

Fastest Tube → DLR route:

Jubilee Line → Canning Town → DLR → London City Airport

4. Bus

Local buses connect LCY to nearby areas like North Woolwich and Canning Town. The routes 129, 473, and 474 are among them.  The 474 connects to Canning Town and Manor Park, the 473 goes to Stratford and North Woolwich, and the 129 bus goes to Lewisham.

5. Driving to London City Airport

Driving is convenient if you have luggage or are traveling in a group.

• Short-stay & long-stay parking available  

• ULEZ charges apply  

• A small drop-off fee applies  

How Far Is London City Airport From… (Distances Table)

These routes make LCY a top pick for quick European city breaks or efficient business hops, especially when time is tight and Heathrow feels like too much hassle.

Where Can You Fly From London City Airport? (Destinations)

How Early Should You Arrive?

Plan to arrive at London City Airport (LCY) as follows:

Domestic flights: 90 minutes before

European flights: 90 minutes before

For long-haul flights: Arrive 2 hours before departure.

Note: Arriving more than two hours early isn't recommended, as it can lead to unnecessary crowding and limited seating.

How Many Terminals?

There’s just one terminal—easy to navigate and never overwhelming. It’s a two-level building, with check-in desks on the ground floor and security and departure gates upstairs.

Does London City Airport Have a Lounge?

Yes, London City Airport has lounges, but no dedicated British Airways (BA) lounge. The lounge at LCY offers cozy seating, a laid-back vibe, and big windows overlooking the runway. It’s a calm, air-conditioned space with plush sofas—perfect for sipping a coffee and unwinding before your flight. 

When was LCY Built?

LCY Airport was built between 1986-1987, officially opened in 1987. In 1987, Queen Elizabeth II formally opened the airport after the foundation stone for the terminal was laid in May of that year.

Is London City Airport Busy?

London City Airport is generally quieter than Heathrow or Gatwick, though it does get busier during weekday mornings and early evenings—especially with business travelers.

What are LCY Airport Opening Times?

London City Airport (LCY) operates from Monday through Friday from 04:45 to 22:00, Saturday from 04:45 to 13:00, and Sunday from 10:30 to 22:00.  It is open from 06:45 to 22:30 on public holidays and closed on December 25.

Who Owns LCY?

Macquarie Asset Management currently holds a 75% stake in London City Airport, having increased its share in recent years. The remaining 25% is owned by Wren House Infrastructure, part of the Kuwait Investment Authority.

Is there a drop-off fee at London City Airport?
No, LCY is not currently charging a drop-off fee for vehicles, but London City Airport has announced that it will introduce one soon.

Is LCY Easy to Get To?

Yes, getting to LCY is straightforward thanks to its location close to central London and its strong transport links—including the DLR, buses, taxis, and quick access by car. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-timer, you’ll likely appreciate just how hassle-free it is.

Is LCY Worth It?

You won’t find endless shops or food courts here—but for many, that’s part of the charm. In short, if time, convenience, and ease of access matter most, LCY is hard to beat.