London International Airport

London International Airport sits about 10 kilometres northeast of downtown London, Ontario, serving as the primary air gateway for the southwestern part of the province. Though not as large as Toronto Pearson, it handles a steady flow of domestic and seasonal international flights — mainly to the United States and Caribbean destinations. The airport is compact, practical, and generally less crowded than major hubs, which makes it a favourite among travellers who value efficiency over frills.

Getting There

The airport is accessible via Highways 401 and 402. From downtown London, take Highway 401 eastbound to exit 191 (Airport Road), then follow signs for the terminal. The drive takes about 15 minutes in normal traffic. Taxis and ride-shares are readily available from the city centre; expect a fare of around $30–$40 CAD. London Transit operates bus route 36 (Airport Industrial), which connects to the airport on weekdays and Saturdays, but service is limited — check schedules in advance if you rely on public transport. For those driving, the airport has a paid parking lot with both short-term and long-term options. The long-term lot is a short walk from the terminal and costs about $12 per day. Note that parking is paid at all times, so bring a credit card or cash.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal is a single, two-level building. Arrivals are on the lower level, departures on the upper. Everything is within a few minutes' walk. Check-in counters are straight ahead after entering; Air Canada and WestJet handle most flights. Security is efficient, with multiple lanes that usually process passengers in under 15 minutes. After security, the departures area has a few gates, some seating, and basic amenities. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout. There are accessible washrooms with changing tables, and the airport is designated a transgender safe space. A small shop sells snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, and there are vending machines. The only restaurant is a Tim Hortons near the gates — good for coffee and a quick bite, but limited for a full meal. The terminal is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible parking right in front. Overall, the airport feels quiet and unhurried, though it can get busy around its peak times (Monday to Thursday at 7 pm).

London International Airport and London

London, Ontario, is often called the "Forest City" for its many parks and tree-lined streets. It sits in the heart of southwestern Ontario, roughly halfway between Toronto and Detroit. The city is home to Western University, a major research institution that draws thousands of students and academics each year. Culturally, London punches above its weight: the Grand Theatre stages professional productions, Museum London offers a solid collection of Canadian art, and the London Music Hall brings in touring acts. For outdoor enthusiasts, Victoria Park hosts summer festivals and a winter skating rink, while the Thames River paths are good for walking or cycling. The city also has a robust food scene, with a mix of farm-to-table restaurants, ethnic cuisines, and craft breweries. Many travellers come for medical reasons — London Health Sciences Centre is a regional referral centre — or for business, as the area has a growing tech and manufacturing base. Tourism often combines a city visit with trips to nearby attractions: Stratford's theatre festival is an hour away, and Lake Erie's beaches are about 90 minutes south. The airport's role is to connect this region efficiently, particularly for those who find Pearson too crowded or inconvenient. For a mid-sized Canadian city, London offers more than most expect — and the airport is a good introduction, simple and straightforward.

Practical Information

The airport is open daily, but hours vary by flight schedule — the terminal generally opens two hours before the first departure and remains open until the last arrival. Confirm your flight's status online before heading out. For contact: phone +1 519-452-4015, website http://flyyxu.ca/. The airport is LGBTQ+ friendly and has been designated a transgender safe space. Parking is paid only. Wi-Fi is free. If you're picking someone up, use the cellphone lot (free for up to two hours) to avoid circling. One concrete tip: arrive at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight and two hours before an international one — even though the airport is small, security lines can form at peak times. Also, note that there is no full-service restaurant or lounge, so eat before you come or bring snacks.