In 2022, four of the airports in London served more than 10 million passengers: London-Heathrow, London-Gatwick, London-Stansted and London-Luton. While much smaller than the others, London-City is also worth mentioning as it's perhaps the most convenient London airport.

Yes, London City Airport (LCY) is significantly smaller than Heathrow (LHR) in every measurable way. In 2026, Heathrow remains one of the world's busiest global hubs, covering over 1,200 hectares with four active terminals and two massive runways capable of handling the Airbus A380. In contrast, London City Airport is a "boutique" airport located in the Royal Docks, covering only about 60 hectares with a single runway. LCY is designed for speed and business travelers; you can often get from the front door to the gate in 20 minutes, a feat impossible at Heathrow. However, because of its short runway and steep 5.5-degree approach, only specific smaller aircraft like the Embraer E195-E2 or Airbus A220 can land there. While Heathrow serves hundreds of long-haul global destinations, London City focuses primarily on short-haul European business routes and domestic UK flights. Heathrow is a city unto itself; London City is a streamlined transit point for the Canary Wharf and City of London financial districts.