London City Airport works differently from Heathrow or Gatwick in a few ways that catch first-time visitors out — mainly around what it now costs just to be dropped off, and the fact there's no free parking option at all. Here's what's actually true as of September 2026, not the outdated "free drop-off" reputation the airport used to have.
One Terminal, Not Several
Unlike Heathrow or Gatwick, London City Airport has a single terminal building. That means there's no risk of your taxi dropping you at the wrong terminal, and no need to check which one your airline uses before you travel.
The Drop-Off Charge, Explained
From January 2026, London City Airport introduced a paid terminal drop-off charge, ending its previous free-drop-off status — it was the last major London airport to hold out on this. The charge is £8 for up to 5 minutes, then £1 per extra minute, with a strict 10-minute maximum, enforced by barrierless ANPR cameras rather than a physical barrier. Payment is made through the official APCOA portal, due by midnight the next day.
Blue Badge holders are exempt from the charge, but need to pre-register online in advance — showing the badge on the day isn't enough on its own.
No Free Parking, Anywhere
This is the detail that catches people out most: unlike some other London airports, London City has no free Long Stay or Mid Stay parking alternative at all. Both Short Stay and Long Stay car parks are paid. If you want a genuinely free way to the terminal, the DLR — which has a covered walkway straight into the building — is the only option.
Taxi vs. DLR for This Airport
Private hire vehicles and taxis pay the standard £8 drop-off charge (black cabs are exempt from that specific charge but have their own separate £6.00 addition to the TfL meter for London City drop-offs, introduced in April 2026). For a direct, door-to-door journey from Tunbridge Wells with luggage or a group, a pre-booked taxi still tends to be the more practical option — the DLR is genuinely useful once you're already in London, less so as the first leg from Kent.