From the facilities available to how security works, we answer your airport questions here
Your questions on travelling with London Southend Airport answered, from checking in and baggage to flights and airlines.
Checking in
How do I check-in?
Please visit your airline’s website for advice on the check-in procedure. Nearly all airlines require passengers to check-in online so please ensure that you check this before you travel.
What time does check-in open?
Check-in opens two and a half hours before your scheduled time of departure.
What times is the airport open between?
The airport is open from three hours before every departure until one hour after all arrivals. Please note, the terminal is not open 24 hours.
What ID do I need to check-in?
This is down to your airline but there are general rules. For European and international travel, a valid passport is required. You should refer to the Government website for passport rules when travelling to Europe. For some countries your passport will need to be valid for at least six months after your intended return and you may also need a visa.
Before travelling, check your destination country’s entry requirements and allow enough time to renew your passport and/or apply for a visa at the relevant embassy or consulate. It is also worth carrying additional photographic ID separate from your passport. More information can be found on gov.uk.
How many bags am I allowed?
To check allowances and to book all of your baggage requirements, please ensure you check with your airline, as they will be happy to help you. Please note all passengers are also permitted to take an airport shopping bag onboard… so make sure you spend some time perusing the latest offers in World Duty Free!
How heavy can my bags be?
Please check with your airline or your booking confirmation as allowances can vary.
What time do I have to arrive if I’ve already checked in online?
We encourage travellers to arrive up to two hours before your scheduled flight departure time.
Can I check-in the day before?
Passenger check-in at the airport is only available on the day of travel, but please note that some airlines now apply a charge for in person check-in. Depending on your airline, you might be able to check-in online prior to your day of travel.
We recommend checking with your airline first.
What should I do if on the day of travel I cannot find or access my boarding pass?
Please call your airline who will support you with downloading their app or supporting via email.
If you are at the airport, please approach the check-in desks where the handling agent will be able to assist you.
How long does my passport need to be valid for from my date of travel?
All questions about passport validity and entry requirements for your required destination can be found on gov.uk.
Baggage
What are the rules for electrical items in baggage?
Large electricals (e.g. laptop, iPad, hairdryers) can be taken in your cabin baggage, and we ask that you leave these items in your cabin baggage when preparing for security.
Please refer to gov.uk advice for more information.
Are there any exceptions to the 2 litre liquids rule in cabin baggage?
Temporary 100ml liquid restriction
Following updated guidance from the Department for Transport (Dft), a temporary 100ml restriction on liquids will be reintroduced for passengers travelling from six regional airports, including London Southend, where Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC) are in full operation, effective from 00.01 on Sunday, June 9.
This temporary move is a routine measure, enabling further improvements to be made to the new checkpoint systems.
Passengers can continue to travel with and leave liquids up to 100ml in their cabin bags.
Any liquids above 100ml will not be permitted to travel and must be voluntarily abandoned.
Prescription medical/baby food is not limited to the 2 litre cap rule. Please check with your airline for their latest advice.
Can I take liquids, aerosols and gels bought at the airport?
If you’re through security and perusing World Duty Free or any of our retail stores, you can purchase liquids, aerosols and gels larger than 100ml.
Can I take liquids, aerosols and gels from home?
Yes, you can take liquids, aerosols and gels from home in your hold baggage. Liquids, aerosols and gels in cabin baggage must be below or equal to 2 litres (with some exceptions).
From 00:01 on Sunday, June 9, 2024, the Department for Transport is temporarily reintroducing 100ml restrictions on liquids. Please see more information here.
Can I pack sharp items or tools?
You cannot carry any sharp items or tools in your cabin baggage. This includes, but is not limited to, scissors, a pocket knife or a corkscrew. Please refer to government guidance on restrictions on work tools for hand and hold baggage for more information.
Flights & airlines
What time does my flight arrive?
Please visit your airline’s website for the most up to date arrival information. You can also see live flight information on our website.
When does my flight leave?
Please visit your airline’s website for the most up to date arrival information. You can also see live flight information on our website.
How do I book special assistance?
Book special assistance through your airline or tour operator before you travel. Click for more information on special assistance.
What should I do if my flight into or leaving London Southend Airport is cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled, you should contact your airline or tour operator.
Airport staff will be on hand to help you, but the best source of information will be from your airline directly. Airline apps usually update fastest – often faster than information can be shared with the airport itself – so we highly recommend that you download your chosen airline’s app before your flight.
What are my passenger rights?
If your flight arrangements are disrupted, for example your fight is substantially delayed or cancelled or your bags do not arrive at your destination with you, please contact your airline or tour operator directly.
To find out more information about your rights as a passenger departing from or arriving at any EU airport on a flight operated by an EU airline, visit the CAA website. UK passengers should also refer to UK regulations.
How do I book a flight?
Take a look at the destinations that London Southend Airport flies to, and book your holiday with easyJet Holidays. Alternatively, you can contact airlines that fly from London Southend Airport directly.
When should I arrive at the airport for my flight?
How can I get updates on my flight direct to my phone?
The best thing to do is download the app relative to your chosen airline.
Can I book helicopter ride experiences from London Southend Airport?
You can book a helicopter experience via Adventure Experiences 001.
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