How to Get from Heathrow to London City Airport: A Complete Guide

Connecting between London Heathrow (LHR) on the west side of London and London City Airport (LCY) in the East End Docklands is a common requirement for corporate travelers, financial executives, and international passengers. The distance between the two airports is roughly 28 miles (45 km).

Option 1: Private Executive Chauffeur (Recommended)

The fastest and most comfortable way to transfer between Heathrow and London City Airport is via a pre-booked executive taxi or chauffeur service such as Jannah Express.

• Travel Time: 55 to 80 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
• Luggage: Door-to-terminal service with full luggage assistance. No dragging suitcases up and down subway stairs.
• Meet & Greet: Driver waits in the arrivals hall with a name board, monitors flight delays, and takes you directly to your departure terminal.
• Vehicles: Mercedes E-Class, S-Class, or spacious V-Class MPVs for groups.

Option 2: The Elizabeth Line + DLR

For passengers opting for public transit, the opening of the Elizabeth Line has significantly improved cross-London connectivity:

1. Board the Elizabeth Line directly from Heathrow Terminals 2, 3, 4, or 5 to Custom House station.
2. Change at Custom House to the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Canning Town, then transfer to the DLR towards Woolwich Arsenal to reach London City Airport.
3. Total Travel Time: Approximately 75 to 95 minutes, requiring 1 to 2 transfers with luggage.

Option 3: Piccadilly Line to Central London + DLR

The traditional London Underground route takes the Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Green Park, transfers to the Jubilee Line to Canning Town, and switches to the DLR for London City Airport. This option takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes and involves significant crowds during peak rush hours.

Minimum Recommended Connection Window

Because of check-in deadlines and potential cross-London traffic, we advise allowing a minimum of 3.5 to 4 hours between landing at Heathrow and your scheduled departure from London City Airport.