Guide to London Southend Airport: Tips and Tricks for Smooth Travels
London Southend Airport is an international airport located in Essex, about 40 miles from central London. It is the furthest airport from the city centre, but it offers a range of flights to various destinations in Europe. The airport is known for its efficient and hassle-free travel experience, making it a popular choice for many travellers.
Getting to London Southend Airport is easy with various transport links available. Train services run directly from London Liverpool Street Station to the airport, and there are also coach and taxi services available. The airport also offers a range of parking options, including short and long-term parking, and special assistance services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
For those looking to grab a bite or do some shopping before their flight, London Southend Airport has a range of facilities available. There are several restaurants, cafes and shops to choose from, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. The airport also offers a range of hotels nearby for those who need to stay overnight before or after their flight.
Location and Access
London Southend Airport is located in Essex, approximately 42 miles east of London. It is situated in the town of Rochford, near the coast of the Thames Estuary.
By Train
The airport has its own railway station, located directly opposite the passenger terminal. The station provides frequent and easy access into central London, with trains to London Liverpool Street station via Stratford operating from 4.05am to 11.05pm Monday to Saturday and from 6.19am to 10.58pm on Sundays. The journey takes approximately 53 minutes.
By Car
London Southend Airport is easily accessible by car, located just off the A127 Southend Arterial Road. The airport has its own car park, with both short-stay and long-stay options available. Pre-booking your parking space is recommended to ensure availability and to save money.
By Bus
There are several bus services that connect the airport to nearby towns and cities, including Southend-on-Sea, Chelmsford, and Basildon. The bus stop is located outside the passenger terminal, and tickets can be purchased from the driver or in advance online.
By Taxi
Taxis are readily available outside the passenger terminal, with a taxi rank located directly outside the main entrance.
Hotels Near Southend Airport
Travellers looking for a convenient place to stay near London Southend Airport will find several options available. From budget-friendly hotels to more luxurious accommodations, there is something for every type of traveller.
Premier Inn Southend Airport
The Premier Inn Southend Airport is a great option for travellers who want to stay close to the airport. It’s just a five-minute drive or a 20-minute bus ride away from the airport. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant. Guests can also enjoy free parking during their stay.
đź“ŤThanet Grange, Princes Avenue, Southend On Sea, Essex SS2 6GB
Holiday Inn Rochford
The Holiday Inn Southend is another popular hotel near the airport. It’s just a short walk away from the airport terminal, making it a convenient choice for travellers.
The hotel features modern rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness centre. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s Park, Stay & Go package, which allows them to leave their car at the hotel while they travel.
đź“Ť77 Eastwoodbury Crescent, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 6XG
The Rochford Hotel
The Rochford Hotel is situated just outside of Rochford Square. It offers an on-site restaurant, a bar and modern ensuite rooms, at great rates. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi and free parking during their stay.
With less than a 3 minute walk to Rochford train station, it’s the idea place to stay if you’re looking catch a flight from Southend airport, visit the attractions on Southend seafront or take a trip into London.
đź“ŤBradley Way, Rochford, Essex SS4 1BU
Travellers looking for a convenient place to stay near London Southend Airport will find several options available. From budget-friendly hotels to more luxurious accommodations, there is something for every type of traveller.
Terminals
London Southend Airport has one terminal building that is divided into two levels for arrivals and departures. The terminal building is modern and spacious, providing a comfortable experience for passengers.
The terminal has a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and cafes. Passengers can enjoy a meal or a drink before their flight or pick up some last-minute essentials from the shops.
The terminal also has several seating areas for passengers to relax in before their flight. There is also a lounge available for passengers who want to enjoy a more luxurious experience. The lounge offers complimentary food and drinks, as well as comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi.
Passengers can check in for their flight at the self-service kiosks or at the check-in desks. Baggage drop-off is available for passengers who have already checked in online. There are also several baggage reclaim belts for passengers to collect their luggage upon arrival.
Check-In Procedures
London Southend Airport provides a hassle-free check-in experience for its passengers. Here’s what you need to know:
Online Check-In
Most airlines operating at London Southend Airport require passengers to check-in online. During the online check-in process, passengers can choose their seat and upload their boarding pass to their smartphone or print it before their flight. However, it is important to check the airline’s website for their check-in open times.
In-Airport Check-In
For passengers who are unable to check-in online, in-airport check-in is also available. The check-in area for London Southend Airport departures is located at the far end of the terminal building. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight’s scheduled departure time.
Baggage Allowance
Passengers are allowed to carry a certain amount of baggage depending on their airline and ticket type. It is important to check with the airline for their specific baggage allowance policy. Passengers are also advised to label their baggage with their name, address, and contact details.
Security Check
All passengers must clear security before entering the departure lounge. It is recommended that passengers remove all metal objects, including belts, watches, and jewellery before passing through the security checkpoint. Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be placed in a clear plastic bag and presented separately at the security checkpoint.
Boarding
Passengers are advised to listen to the announcements and check the flight information screens for their boarding gate number. Boarding usually begins 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Passengers are required to present their boarding pass and passport at the boarding gate.
Security Measures
London Southend Airport takes security seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff. Here are some of the security measures in place:
Boarding Pass Check
Before entering the security screening area, passengers must present their boarding pass at the boarding pass check point. Passengers can use either a digital or printed boarding pass, which will be checked by a member of security.
Security Screening
All passengers must clear security before entering the departure lounge. Security screening includes the inspection of hand luggage, electronic devices, and personal items. Passengers are advised to pack their liquids, gels, and aerosols in a clear plastic bag and to remove them from their hand luggage for screening.
Independent Airline Measures
Passengers are advised to check their airline’s independent measures before boarding the plane. Some airlines may require passengers to wear face masks or have additional security measures in place. Passengers should check the latest government guidance prior to travel on GOV.UK.
Online Check-In
Many airlines offer the option to check-in online, which can save time. Passengers can either print out their boarding pass or have it on their mobile phone. However, it is important to keep the print out safe as it may be required for security screening.
London Southend Airport’s security measures are in line with the Civil Aviation Authority’s regulations. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport in plenty of time to allow for security screening and to follow all security instructions from airport staff.
Facilities
London Southend Airport offers a range of services and facilities to ensure passengers have a comfortable and stress-free travel experience. Here are some of the amenities available at the airport:
Lounges
The SKYLIFE Lounge is available for passengers looking to relax in comfort before their flight. The lounge offers complimentary drinks, snacks, and Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy a range of magazines and newspapers while they wait.
Parking
Passengers can book their parking in advance to save time and money. The airport offers a range of parking options, including short-stay, long-stay, and meet and greet. Passengers can also take advantage of the Fast Track parking option to get through security quickly.
Baggage
Baggage trolleys are available throughout the airport for passengers to use free of charge. The airport also offers a baggage wrapping service for passengers who want to protect their luggage during their journey.
Currency
Passengers can exchange currency at the airport’s Bureau de Change. There are also cash machines available for passengers who need to withdraw cash.
Eating and Drinking
There are several options for food and drink at London Southend Airport. Passengers can choose from a range of cafes, restaurants, and bars, including The Navigator pub, The Pilot Bar and SKYCAFE
Medical Help
If passengers require medical assistance, there is a first aid station located in the main terminal building. Passengers can also request assistance from the airport staff if they require additional help.
Meeting Someone at the Airport
Passengers can meet their friends and family in the arrivals area of the airport. There are also meeting points available for passengers who need to meet someone specific.
Shops and Restaurants
London Southend Airport offers a variety of shopping and dining options for passengers to enjoy before or after their flights.
Shopping
Passengers can find a range of shops at the airport, including WHSmith and World Duty Free. WHSmith offers a selection of books, magazines, and snacks, while World Duty Free provides a range of tax-free cosmetics, fragrances, and alcohol. Passengers can even reserve items online and collect them before their flight.
Restaurants and Cafes
There are several restaurants and cafes available at London Southend Airport, serving a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes.
Passengers can also enjoy a drink at The Bridge Bar, which offers a selection of beers, wines, and spirits.
Transport Links
London Southend Airport is conveniently located with several transport options available for passengers to choose from. The airport has excellent transport links to London and other nearby areas. Here are some of the transport options available to passengers:
Train Services
London Southend Airport has its own train station, Southend Airport Station, which is located just 100 metres from the airport terminal. Passengers can easily access the station through a covered walkway. Trains from the station run regularly to London Liverpool Street, with a journey time of approximately 50 minutes.
Bus Services
Several bus services operate to and from London Southend Airport. Passengers can take the X30 bus, which is operated by First Bus Essex, to get to London Stansted Airport. The bus service also connects the airport to other nearby areas, including Southend-on-Sea, Rochford, and Rayleigh. Other bus services that operate from the airport include Arriva Buses and Stephensons of Essex.
Airlines and Destinations
London Southend Airport serves a range of airlines, providing passengers with access to a variety of destinations in Europe and the UK. The airport is primarily served by EasyJet.
EasyJet
EasyJet is the largest airline operating out of London Southend Airport, offering flights to a range of popular destinations across Europe. Passengers can fly to cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Faro, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca and Geneva.