Just back from my honeymoon so look out for my Hawaiian reviews!!!
Just back from my honeymoon so look out for my Hawaiian reviews!!!
Member since:14.10.2005
Reviews:64
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Well, after writing a few reviews on other airports around Europe based on just one or two visits, I thought that it was about time I wrote one on my 'home' airport of London Luton (LTN).
Luton is found about 30 miles north of London and is the 4th largest London airport after Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted. It was opened in 1938 and was a fighter base during WWII until it started commercial operations. Traditionally seen predominantly as a charter airport, it started to expand rapidly in the mid 90's when several low cost operators, easyJet in particular, started setting up bases at the airport. Today it sees over 9m people pass through every year as well as being one of the foremast private aviation fields in the south of the UK. Earlier this year the airport started its first transatlantic
flight with a daily service to Newark, New York being operated by Silverjet, an entirely business class airline operating out of the worlds first private terminal.
People generally have a very negative opinion of Luton Airport and this is probably due to its history. Historically being a charter base in a town, which has come last in polls of nicest places to live in recent years, it is always an up hill struggle. Add in the fact that unlike its London competitors, it only has one runway then it is easy to see why. However, and my view may be biased by working there (although not for the airport themselves), I think that it is one of the nicer UK airports that I have visited.
Transport links to the airport have often been a problem in the past but these are gradually improving. In 1999, a dedicated station was built at Luton Parkway on the Midland Main Line and regular shuttle buses can take you from there to the terminal free of charge. Trains run regularly and take about half an hour to Kings Cross. Alternatively, a Virgin TrainsBus can take you to Milton Keynes station. The road network has perhaps struggled in the past but huge roadwork’s which should be finished later this year will give even quicker, easier access direct to the M1 which itself is being improved from J10 at the airport down to the M25. If you are travelling from the airport before then, then do be aware that traffic can get bad in rush hours (especially coming from the motorway), but I drive the route daily and don't usually get too badly caught up. If you do drive, also be warned that like at most airports, official parking can be extortionate so look out for a cheaper private firm is my advice.
Once at the airport you will be met by the slightly futuristic looking terminal. Luton used to have a very grotty terminal but the current structure, opened in 2005, is much more impressive. On arriving, you will find the check in area dominated by easyJet, Ryanair, Thomsonfly, Monarch and Wizzair although other airlines do fly from the airport. There are some ok shops (in particular, a Marks + Spencer’s, which can be very useful!) but it is best to head straight for security.
If LTN has one major problem it is security, or as is often the case, lack of security personnel. I have been very fortunate and have never had to wait too long despite flying regularly from the airport but in peak times, and in particular during last years security scares, queues can easily take 30mins-1hr. Once through security you will be met by the departures lounge, which has a good range of, shops compared to many airports. It is quite enclosed, except for one big bay window at the end there is no natural light, and I have often felt it is too small for the traffic going through the airport. Gates are between 5-20mins (if you are a very slow walker) from the lounge although you must keep an eye out, as LTN is a silent terminal so they will not announce gates opening.
Depending on which airline you are flying with often determines which gate you will fly from. Some are on a pier built alongside the new terminal but most require you to step back into the old terminal, which is stark in contrast.
When arriving back at Luton after your trip you will be met with what I feel is one of the worst adverts for our country. The entire arrival process takes place in the old buildings and is not nice at all compared to the effort put into departures. Again I have been reasonably lucky but huge delays can be experienced at both immigration and luggage control so be warned.
All in all, I personally find Luton quite a nice airport and it would be very easy to be fed up of it considering I spend so much time there. Like others, it does have its faults but in general, you will probably have a good experience. If you are flying from the airport also be aware to look out for celebs. Being big on private aviation, you may see Roman Abramovich (Chelsea Owner) in his private 767, Robbie Williams boarding a private jet off to some exotic location or maybe the England Football team heading off to an international match.LTN
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May 25th, 2007
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