Flying from London City Airport (LCY) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect and how to prepare for your flight:
1. Flight Overview
- Flight Duration: The flight between London City Airport and Amsterdam typically takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Airlines: Several airlines offer flights between these cities, including KLM, British Airways, and EasyJet.
- Frequency: There are frequent daily flights between London City and Amsterdam, with multiple departures throughout the day, making it easy to find a convenient time to travel.
2. Departing from London City Airport (LCY)
- Location: London City Airport is located in the Docklands area of East London, about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from Central London. It’s well connected by DLR (Docklands Light Railway), making it easily accessible from the city center.
- Check-in Time: London City Airport is known for its quick and efficient services. It’s advised to arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before your flight’s departure to allow time for check-in, security, and potential delays.
- Security and Check-in: Check-in desks and security are generally fast due to the smaller size of the airport, and many airlines offer mobile check-in options or self-service kiosks.
3. Facilities at London City Airport
- Lounges: There are a few lounges available, including the London City Airport Business Lounge, offering comfort and refreshments before your flight.
- Shops and Dining: The airport features a range of shops, including duty-free, and cafes for snacks and meals. For a quick bite, try places like Pret a Manger or Starbucks.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport for passengers.
4. Flight to Amsterdam
- Aircraft Type: The aircraft used for these short flights are usually smaller regional jets or narrow-body planes.
- In-flight Experience: While the flight duration is short, most airlines offer light refreshments, including coffee, water, and snacks. Some flights may also include entertainment, but it is generally limited due to the short duration of the trip.
5. Arriving at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
- Airport Overview: Amsterdam Schiphol is one of Europe’s busiest airports, located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Amsterdam city center. It is well-connected by trains, taxis, and buses.
- Customs and Immigration: Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, passengers may need to go through passport control upon arrival. However, the process is usually fast for travelers with an EU/EEA passport.
- Baggage Claim: Once through immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area. If you have carry-on luggage only, you can head directly to the airport exit.
6. Getting into Amsterdam
- Train: The most convenient option for getting to the city center is the train. Schiphol’s train station is located directly underneath the airport and offers direct trains to Amsterdam Central Station (around 15-20 minutes).
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area, and the ride into the city center takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
- Bus: Various buses run from Schiphol to different parts of Amsterdam, including the Connexxion Schiphol Hotel Shuttle.
7. Travel Tips
- Weather: Always check the weather forecast for both London and Amsterdam, as conditions may affect travel times.
- Currency: Amsterdam uses the Euro (€), so make sure you have some currency or a card that works internationally.
- Language: While Dutch is the official language in Amsterdam, English is widely spoken, so language won’t be a barrier for most travelers.
Flying from London City Airport to Amsterdam is a straightforward journey with convenient options for transport and arrival in Amsterdam. It’s ideal for both business and leisure travelers looking for a quick and comfortable connection between two of Europe’s most vibrant cities.