London Luton Airport (LTN) is considered a medium-sized airport; while it is the fifth busiest in the UK, it is significantly smaller and less complex than London’s "Big Two," Heathrow and Gatwick. In 2026, Luton handles approximately 18 to 19 million passengers annually, which is about a quarter of the traffic seen at Heathrow. Physically, the airport is notable for having only one terminal and a single, relatively short runway (2,162 meters). This "compact" layout is actually a benefit for many travelers, as it results in shorter walking distances between check-in, security, and the gates compared to the sprawling terminals of larger hubs. However, Luton is "big" in terms of its role as a major base for low-cost carriers like EasyJet and Wizz Air, serving over 150 destinations across Europe and North Africa. The 2023 completion of the "Luton DART" transit link has made the airport feel more "major" by providing a seamless, 4-minute connection from the Parkway rail station to the terminal. While it may not have the luxury lounges or vast retail space of Heathrow, Luton’s efficiency makes it a heavyweight in the European budget travel market.