Stansted has suffered on-off relationships with north Atlantic airlines. One reason has been its relative lack of onward connections, but there are signs that they may be becoming more settled.
London’s third airport airport is predominantly a base for European no frills airlines such as EasyJet and Ryanair, but as well as leisure passengers there are a significant number of business travellers. The arrival of business-only carriers Eos and Maxjet has been followed by the launch of a conventional service by American Airlines. All three are offering flights to New York’s JFK airport.
American Airlines says it is not deterred by Stansted’s shortage of interline opportunities - the facility for passengers to book onward through travel, which is not usually offered by low cost carriers. “We still have those at Heathrow,” American says. “Stansted is where out passengers have told us they want us to be. It’s another option and it’s very convenient for business travellers based at or visiting Canary Wharf.”
Lounges and facilties
Eos, Maxjet and Amercian Airlines all have lounges at Stansted. Eos replaced its temporary lounge with a new one in July, next to the gate its passengers normally use. American is providing a temporary lounge for business class passengers but plans to open a permanent facility.
Eateries and shops still include a Caviar & Seafood Bar and a branch of Hugo Boss. Other outlets include Costa Coffee, Dixons for electronics, Boots the chemists, Hamley’s for last minute toys, and Books Etc.
Transport tips
Eos and Maxjet - though not American - offer chauffeur driven cars. If you are not using those services allow up to around £80 for a licensed London taxi between the airport and central London. The ride will take an hour or so, depending on time of day.
The Stansted Express surface rail link connects the airport with London’s Liverpool Street station, which is convenient for central London based travellers. It takes an average of 45 minutes and the airport station is directly below the terminal.
More information: www.stanstedairport.com
