Construction underway for new pick-up and drop-off Express Lane at London Southend Airport
Eagle-eyed customers will soon spot construction work at London Southend Airport, and it’s all in preparation for a brand-new Express Lane for Pick-Up and Drop-Off, designed to make journeys even easier.
Set to open from 1 March 2026, the Express Lane will introduce a dedicated, signposted area adjacent to the Short Stay car park, allowing passengers to be picked up or dropped off directly opposite the main terminal. The new layout has been designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion and create a smoother experience for drivers and passengers alike.
A spokesperson for London Southend Airport said: “The Express Lane will provide a faster, more convenient option for passengers and drivers, specially designed to support improved traffic flow ahead of what is expected to be our busiest summer since 2019. These works form part of our continued investment in improving infrastructure and enhancing our easy, speedy, friendly passenger experience.”
The Express Lane will cost £8 for up to 10 minutes and will operate without entry or exit barriers. Drivers will simply pay online within 24 hours of using the service, helping to keep vehicles moving freely through the airport.
It comes as London Southend Airport prepares for its busiest summer season in seven years, connecting the region to more than 25 destinations across Europe – including Antalya, Malta and the Canary Islands – and reinforcing its role as a key transport hub for Essex, London and East Anglia.
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About London Southend Airport
London Southend Airport is one of the UK’s fastest-growing regional airports, with a 133% increase in flights compared to summer 2024 and 122 departures per week. Our dedicated on-site train station ensures seamless connectivity, with a 10-minute train-to-gate time and direct services from Stratford, London in 43 minutes and London Liverpool Street in just 52 minutes.
Renowned for sensational customer experience, we manage all key operations in-house, delivering an easy, speedy, friendly journey from arrival to departure. easyJet passengers rank us among the UK’s top airports for satisfaction and our own private London Southend Jet Centre is the fastest-growing in the country.