Are you excited about your upcoming trip? We at London Luton Airport (LLA) share your enthusiasm! We’re committed to making your journey smooth and stress-free from the moment you arrive to the time you depart. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating the airport and the services available to help you along the way.
Getting Ready for Departure
Once you’ve chosen your dream destination, we’re thrilled to welcome you to LLA! We’re here to make your travel experience as easy as possible.
If you’ve already checked in online and are only carrying hand luggage, you can proceed straight to security. However, if you need to check in at the airport or drop off hold luggage, head to the designated check-in area before going through security. Your airline is responsible for this process, and check-in times vary depending on the airline. We recommend arriving at the airport as advised by your airline, generally 2-3 hours before your flight’s departure.
The Check-in Process
When you arrive at the check-in desk, be prepared to show your travel documents, including your passport. These documents will also be required when you board your flight at the gate.
The friendly staff at the check-in desks who handle your luggage are employed by a Ground Handling Agent, which acts on behalf of your airline. London Luton Airport works with three Ground Handling Agents:
- Menzies
- Swissport
- GH London
Remember, if you require Special Assistance, such as wheelchair assistance, you must book this with your airline at least 48 hours in advance of your flight.
Security Search: A Smooth and Safe Experience
Whether you checked in online or at the airport, you’ll need to go through security search before you can board your flight. This area is staffed by highly trained personnel who work diligently to ensure your safety and adhere to government regulations. We prioritize your safety without sacrificing speed. To make security as efficient as possible, arrive prepared, follow our helpful tips, and be Security Smart.
Remember that liquid rules remain in place as per government guidelines.
To expedite your journey, consider using our Fast Track security service, which helps you get through security and to Departures faster.
You’ll need to scan your boarding pass to enter the security search area, but you won’t need to show your passport at this point.
Shopping, Dining, and Relaxing at LLA
At LLA, we’ve got you covered with a diverse range of shops and restaurants to satisfy your needs. You’ll find over 40 retail and dining options within the terminal. Our dedicated staff works tirelessly to ensure your experience is pleasant and swift, but please be understanding during peak times.
If you have questions about any of our retail outlets, it’s best to contact them directly. But if you need assistance from us, we’re happy to help.
Here are a few more helpful tips:
- Remember that while liquids are restricted in hand luggage, you can bring an empty water bottle through security and refill it after. Water fountains are conveniently located at the back of the security hall and near toilet facilities in the departure lounge. Our retailers are also happy to refill your bottles.
- If you need a moment of quiet and peace, head to the Quiet Zone located by Gate 17 in Departures. This space is specifically designed for passengers with disabilities like autism, dementia, or cognitive impairments, providing a safe and tranquil environment in unfamiliar surroundings.
- The Quiet Zone also houses our Changing Places facility, equipped with an adult-sized changing bench and hoist for those who need it.
- The departure lounge offers plenty of seating, but if you prefer a quieter spot, especially during busy periods, additional seating is available in the walkways near the gates.
- Travelling with little ones? We have a small airport-themed children’s area next to Gate 7, just around the corner from Pret a Manger. Throughout the terminal, you’ll also find interactive children’s games in seating areas.
- Need to charge your electronic devices? Charging points are conveniently located by the Information Desk, in the departure lounge, next to Gates 6, 7, 22, and 30, as well as in our restaurants and cafes. You can also find charging stations at our coffee stations by Gates 22 and 30.
Your Flight Departure
Our top priority is ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for all our passengers. If you notice anything concerning, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
In the unfortunate event of a flight delay or cancellation, listen for announcements or check for updates from your airline via email or their app. Your airline’s ground handler will handle the situation. Always rely on your airline for the most up-to-date information regarding delays or cancellations and contact them directly with any inquiries.
When it’s time for your flight’s departure, you’ll be called to the gate to begin the boarding process. The staff at the gate, responsible for getting you onboard, as well as those handling your luggage and preparing the aircraft for take-off, are organized by your airline and their contracted Ground Handling Agent.
At the gate, you’ll need to show your boarding pass, passport, and any country-specific documentation for inspection.
Remember, the gate will close 30 minutes before your flight’s departure time.
Arriving at London Luton Airport
Once your flight touches down at LLA, your aircraft will be guided to its stand, and steps will be brought to the door. Your airline’s Ground Handling Agent is responsible for this process, along with handling the transfer of your luggage from the hold.
If you have any feedback about these services, please contact your airline directly, as this process is not under our direct control.
Immigration and Baggage Claim
After disembarking the aircraft, you’ll proceed through the immigration hall, managed by the UK Government’s Border Force.
Passengers with biometric passports can utilize the e-Passport gates. Remember to remove hats and glasses for the camera! Passengers must be at least 10 years old to use the e-Passport gates, and anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
If you have concerns that you would like to address, please inform Border Force of your issues.
We understand that you’re eager to reach your final destination, but this area can get busy, especially if several flights arrive at the same time. Rest assured that our teams are working hard to keep queues moving and prioritize those who need assistance.
After your passport is checked, you’ll head to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage.
Your airline’s Ground Handling Agent (Menzies, Swissport, or GH London, depending on your airline) is responsible for offloading your bags from the aircraft and delivering them to the baggage hall.
During busy periods, there may be slight delays in baggage arrival. While the ground handlers work diligently to minimize delays, please direct any concerns to your airline.
If your luggage is missing or damaged, report it to your airline. As LLA is not involved in this process, we’re unable to provide assistance. Please follow the steps outlined in your airline’s lost or delayed baggage policy.
Lost Property and Onward Travel
If you misplace any belongings while navigating the airport, Luggage-Point oversees all lost property and can help you retrieve them. If you left something on your flight, contact your airline’s Ground Handling Agent and/or follow the process outlined by your airline.
LLA offers a variety of onward travel options. If you haven’t already planned your next journey, our Onward Travel Centre, located by Burger King, is here to help. Our staff will be happy to assist you with booking tickets and directing you to the correct bus bays.
For more information on getting to or from the airport, click here.
We hope you enjoy your journey through LLA!
