Longer, practical guides on specific questions about flying from London Stansted, each checked against the airport's own information. Start here if you want more depth than the quick answers on the facilities page or FAQs.
In this guide
Frequently asked questions
How early should I get to Stansted before my flight? About 2 hours before a short-haul or domestic flight and 3 hours before a long-haul or international one, with more time built in for the 05:00 to 09:00 morning rush in school holidays. The full breakdown is in the arrival timing guide.
Is there a lounge at Stansted and is it worth paying for? Yes, Essence by Escape Lounges, from £19.99 per person pre-booked. Whether it is worth it depends on your layover and budget, covered in the lounge review.
We recommend a transport partner and may earn a referral fee. It never changes what you pay, and we only list options we would use ourselves.
Last verified August 2026 by the London Stansted Airport Guide editorial team. Prices and timetables change, so confirm the specifics on the official London Stansted Airport website before you travel.