London Luton Airport

London Luton Airport serves scheduled passenger flights, with onward journeys available by rail, coach and road. The important distinction for a rail journey is between the passenger terminal and Luton Airport Parkway station: the Luton DART shuttle connects the two. A train ticket to Parkway alone does not necessarily cover the complete journey to the airport.

Connect with the DART

For an arrival, follow the signs for the DART after completing the airport's arrival procedures. At Luton Airport Parkway, choose the onward train for your destination. On a departure journey, leave the mainline train at Parkway and take the DART to the terminal.

Check whether the fare you buy includes the DART or requires a separate ticket. Keep both stages in your journey plan; a mainline train arrival time is not the time you will reach check-in. The DART runs throughout the day and night, but the mainline service you need must still be checked for your travel date.

Choose the onward train

East Midlands Railway's Luton Airport Express serves London St Pancras International. Thameslink offers other London stops, including Farringdon, City Thameslink, Blackfriars and London Bridge. Check the calling pattern of the particular train rather than assuming that every service stops at all of them.

Coaches offer another way to travel, with their own boarding instructions and ticket conditions. Compare the full transfer with your hotel and performance plans. Leave enough flexibility for baggage collection and flight delays, and check the first or last usable service for the return journey.

Assisted travel and check-in

Book assisted travel through your airline, tour operator or travel agent at least 48 hours before departure where possible. The airport's team can help with check-in, security, baggage and access to public transport, including the DART. Report to the signposted Assisted Travel Desk on arrival at the terminal.

Use the airline's check-in and bag-drop deadlines and the airport's current security guidance. If you need help at Parkway or on a mainline train, confirm that part of the journey with the rail operator as well.