Flight times to London vary significantly depending on your departure location. From US East Coast cities like New York and Boston, flights to London typically take 6-7 hours. From Midwest cities like Chicago, expect 7-8.5 hours, while West Coast cities like Los Angeles require 10-11 hours. Southern US cities like Miami are 8-9 hours from London, and Dallas flights take 9-10 hours. European flights to London are much shorter, with Paris just 1-1.5 hours away, while flights from Asia can take 12-14 hours.
This comprehensive guide answers the question “how long is a flight to London” from major cities worldwide, helping you plan your journey to the UK’s vibrant capital with confidence.
Flight Times to London: Quick Reference Table
| Departure City | Flight Time | Distance | Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| From US East Coast | |||
| New York | 6.5-7 hours | 3,461 miles | British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American, Delta, United |
| Boston | 6-7 hours | 3,269 miles | British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, American |
| Washington DC | 7-7.5 hours | 3,662 miles | British Airways, United, Virgin Atlantic, American |
| From US Midwest | |||
| Chicago | 7.5-8.5 hours | 3,953 miles | American, United, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic |
| Denver | 9-10 hours | 4,678 miles | United, British Airways, Lufthansa (connecting) |
| From US West Coast | |||
| Los Angeles | 10-11 hours | 5,456 miles | British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American, United |
| Seattle | 9-10 hours | 4,801 miles | British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American, Delta |
| From US South | |||
| Miami | 8-9 hours | 4,425 miles | American, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta |
| Dallas | 9-10 hours | 4,754 miles | American, British Airways, Finnair |
| From International Cities | |||
| Paris | 1-1.5 hours | 214 miles | British Airways, Air France, EasyJet |
| Dubai | 7-8 hours | 3,400 miles | Emirates, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic |
Flights from US East Coast to London
How Long is a Flight from New York to London?
A flight from New York to London takes approximately 6.5-7 hours. This duration applies to direct flights from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to London Heathrow (LHR) or London Gatwick (LGW). Airlines operating this route include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Delta, and United.
The exact flight time can vary based on factors such as weather conditions, the specific route taken, and seasonal jet stream patterns. Eastbound flights (New York to London) are typically faster than westbound returns due to the assistance of the jet stream when flying east.
The flight distance between New York and London is approximately 3,461 miles, making it one of the shorter transatlantic routes. This popular route sees dozens of daily flights, offering travelers plenty of options for departure times and airlines.
How Long is a Flight from Boston to London?
Flights from Boston to London take approximately 6-7 hours for direct services. This makes Boston one of the quickest US departure points for London, thanks to its northeastern location. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, and American Airlines operate regular direct flights from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to London Heathrow, with some seasonal services to Gatwick.
The flight distance is around 3,269 miles, slightly shorter than the New York route. Boston’s position on the US East Coast makes it an ideal gateway for quick transatlantic travel to the UK.
One advantage of the Boston-London route is that flights often depart in the evening and arrive in London the following morning, allowing travelers to maximize their time in the UK capital.
How Long is a Flight from Washington DC to London?
A flight from Washington DC to London takes approximately 7-7.5 hours. Direct services operate from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to London Heathrow, with British Airways, United, Virgin Atlantic, and American Airlines offering regular flights.
The flight distance is approximately 3,662 miles. As with other transatlantic routes, eastbound flights (DC to London) are typically faster than westbound returns due to prevailing winds.
Washington DC to London is a particularly popular route for business travelers and government officials, with multiple daily flight options. The route is well-served year-round, with slightly increased capacity during summer months.
Flights from US Midwest to London
How Long is a Flight from Chicago to London?
Flights from Chicago to London take approximately 7.5-8.5 hours. American Airlines, United, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic operate direct services from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to London Heathrow. The flight distance is approximately 3,953 miles.
Chicago’s central US location makes it a longer journey than East Coast departures but still considerably shorter than West Coast flights. The route is operated using wide-body aircraft such as Boeing 777s, 787s, and Airbus A330s.
Business travelers often utilize morning departures from Chicago that arrive in London the following morning, allowing for a full day of meetings. Return flights typically depart London in the afternoon or evening, arriving back in Chicago the same day due to the time difference.
How Long is a Flight from Denver to London?
A flight from Denver to London takes approximately 9-10 hours. United Airlines offers direct services from Denver International Airport (DEN) to London Heathrow, while other airlines provide connecting options. The flight distance is approximately 4,678 miles.
Denver’s position in the Mountain time zone and higher altitude means flights to London are longer than from Midwest cities like Chicago. The direct route is relatively new compared to other US-London services, having been introduced to meet growing demand from Colorado’s business and leisure travelers.
These flights typically use Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which are designed for comfort on longer routes with improved cabin pressure and humidity levels to reduce jet lag.
Flights from US West Coast to London
How Long is a Flight from Los Angeles to London?
A flight from Los Angeles to London takes approximately 10-11 hours, making it one of the longer direct routes from the US to the UK. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American, and United operate direct services from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to London Heathrow. The flight distance is approximately 5,456 miles.
These long-haul flights typically use the latest generation of aircraft such as the Airbus A380, Boeing 777-300ER, or Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The extended flight time means these aircraft are configured with enhanced comfort features, particularly in premium cabins.
For travelers on this route, it’s worth considering factors like seat comfort and in-flight amenities given the significant time spent onboard. Most flights depart LAX in the evening and arrive in London the following afternoon, helping to minimize jet lag by aligning with natural sleep patterns.
How Long is a Flight from Seattle to London?
Flights from Seattle to London take approximately 9-10 hours. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American, and Delta operate direct services from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to London Heathrow. The flight distance is approximately 4,801 miles.
Seattle’s northern position on the West Coast makes it slightly closer to London than Los Angeles, resulting in a marginally shorter flight time. However, it’s still a significant journey that crosses multiple time zones.
Most Seattle-London flights are operated using Boeing 787 Dreamliners or Airbus A330s, aircraft specifically designed for these longer international routes with improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
Flights from US South to London
How Long is a Flight from Miami to London?
A flight from Miami to London takes approximately 8-9 hours. American Airlines, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic operate direct services from Miami International Airport (MIA) to London Heathrow. The flight distance is approximately 4,425 miles.
Miami’s southern location makes it farther from London than northeastern cities like New York or Boston, but closer than West Coast destinations. The route is particularly popular during winter months when travelers seek to escape cold UK temperatures for Florida’s warmer climate.
Most Miami-London flights depart in the evening and arrive in London the following morning. The route typically uses Boeing 777 or Airbus A330 aircraft configured for long-haul comfort.
How Long is a Flight from Dallas to London?
Flights from Dallas to London take approximately 9-10 hours. American Airlines, British Airways, and Finnair operate direct services from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to London Heathrow. The flight distance is approximately 4,754 miles.
Dallas serves as a major hub for American Airlines, making this route well-connected with numerous feeder flights from other US cities. The long flight time means most services are operated using Boeing 777 or 787 aircraft with enhanced comfort features.
Business travelers appreciate the multiple daily departures that allow for flexible scheduling. Most flights leave Dallas in the evening and arrive in London the following morning, maximizing productive time at the destination.
International Flights to London
How Long is a Flight from Paris to London?
A flight from Paris to London is remarkably short at just 1-1.5 hours. This makes it one of the quickest international routes to London. British Airways, Air France, and budget carriers like EasyJet operate frequent services between Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Paris Orly (ORY) and London’s various airports. The flight distance is only 214 miles.
An alternative to flying on this route is the Eurostar train service through the Channel Tunnel, which takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes from Paris Gare du Nord to London St Pancras. Many travelers prefer this option as it travels city center to city center, eliminating airport commutes and security wait times.
When comparing total journey time (including getting to/from airports and security procedures), the Eurostar is often comparable or even faster than flying, while offering a more comfortable experience.
How Long is a Flight from Dubai to London?
A flight from Dubai to London takes approximately 7-8 hours. Emirates, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic operate direct services from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to London Heathrow and Gatwick. The flight distance is approximately 3,400 miles.
This popular route connects two major global hubs and is served by multiple daily flights. Emirates typically operates this route using their flagship Airbus A380 aircraft, while British Airways and Virgin Atlantic use Boeing 777s or 787s.
The Dubai-London route is known for its luxury offerings, particularly in premium cabins, as it serves many business travelers and high-end tourists. Flight times are designed to allow for convenient connections at both ends.
Factors Affecting Flight Times to London
Several factors can influence how long your flight to London will take:
Jet Stream and Prevailing Winds
The jet stream is a narrow band of strong wind in the upper atmosphere that generally flows west to east across the North Atlantic. Flights from the US to London (eastbound) typically benefit from tailwinds from the jet stream, while return flights (westbound) face headwinds, often extending flight time by 30-60 minutes.
During winter months, the jet stream is typically stronger, which can further reduce eastbound flight times while increasing westbound times. This seasonal variation means a New York to London flight might take just 6 hours in winter but closer to 7 hours in summer.
Aircraft Type
Modern aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 are designed for better fuel efficiency and can sometimes fly faster routes than older aircraft. The specific aircraft used for your flight can impact total flight time by 15-30 minutes.
Wide-body aircraft used on transatlantic routes have different cruising speeds and altitudes, with newer models generally offering slight advantages in flight time. However, these differences are usually marginal compared to the effects of wind patterns.
Seasonal Variations
Winter months often see stronger jet streams, which can reduce eastbound flight times to London while extending westbound times. Summer typically has more stable conditions with more consistent flight times in both directions.
Airlines sometimes adjust their scheduled flight times seasonally to account for these predictable variations, which is why the same route might show different flight durations depending on the time of year you’re traveling.
Airport Congestion and Taxi Times
London’s airports, particularly Heathrow, can experience significant congestion. The time spent taxiing to the gate after landing can add 15-30 minutes to your total journey time during peak periods.
Heathrow is one of the world’s busiest airports, operating at near capacity, which can lead to holding patterns before landing during busy times. This is less common at Gatwick, Stansted, or London City airports.
Practical Tips for Flying to London
Best Time to Book Flights to London
For the best combination of availability and price, book flights to London 3-4 months in advance. Last-minute deals are rare on transatlantic routes, and prices typically increase as the departure date approaches.
The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October often offer the best value, combining reasonable prices with good weather in London. July and August are peak tourist season with corresponding higher prices.
Mid-week departures (Tuesday and Wednesday) typically offer lower fares than weekend flights. Early morning or late evening flights may also be priced lower than more popular daytime departures.
Dealing with Jet Lag
London is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Time, 6 hours ahead of Central Time, 7 hours ahead of Mountain Time, and 8 hours ahead of Pacific Time. This significant time difference can cause jet lag, particularly when flying eastbound.
To minimize jet lag when flying to London:
- Stay hydrated during the flight
- Avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine
- Try to adapt to London time as soon as you board by adjusting your watch
- If arriving in the morning, try to stay awake until evening
- Spend time outdoors in natural light to help reset your body clock
Eastbound flights (US to London) typically cause more severe jet lag than westbound returns because you’re “losing” time and it’s harder for the body to adjust to a shortened day.
Luggage Storage Options in London
If you arrive in London before your hotel check-in time or have a late flight after checkout, Radical Storage offers convenient luggage storage solutions throughout the city. With locations near major transportation hubs and tourist attractions, you can store your bags securely while exploring London unencumbered.
Radical Storage partners with local businesses to provide affordable luggage storage starting at £5 per bag per day, regardless of size or weight. Each item is covered by a guarantee for added peace of mind.
Popular Radical Storage locations in London include:
- Near King’s Cross and St. Pancras stations
- Around Victoria Station
- Near Paddington Station
- In the West End and Covent Garden
- Around major attractions like the British Museum and Tower of London
Airport Transportation in London
London is served by several airports, each with different transportation options to the city center:
From Heathrow Airport:
- Heathrow Express: Fastest option (15 minutes) to Paddington Station, but more expensive
- Elizabeth Line: Quick service (30-35 minutes) to central London at a lower cost
- London Underground (Piccadilly Line): Most economical option, takes 45-60 minutes
- Taxis: Convenient but expensive, 45-60 minutes depending on traffic
From Gatwick Airport:
- Gatwick Express: Non-stop service to Victoria Station in 30 minutes
- Thameslink: Service to various London stations including St Pancras, London Bridge
- Southern Railway: More economical option to Victoria, slightly slower than the Express
From Stansted Airport:
- Stansted Express: 47 minutes to Liverpool Street Station
- National Express coaches: Budget option to various London locations
From London City Airport:
- DLR (Docklands Light Railway): Quick connections to the Underground network
- Taxis: Relatively affordable due to the airport’s proximity to central London
Average Flight Times to London by Region
| Region | Average Flight Time | Notable Cities |
|---|---|---|
| US East Coast | 6-7.5 hours | New York, Boston, Washington DC |
| US Midwest | 7.5-10 hours | Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis |
| US West Coast | 9-11 hours | Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle |
| US South | 8-10 hours | Miami, Dallas, Atlanta |
| Canada | 6-10 hours | Toronto (6.5h), Vancouver (9.5h) |
| Europe | 1-4 hours | Paris (1h), Rome (2.5h), Istanbul (4h) |
| Middle East | 6-8 hours | Dubai (7h), Tel Aviv (5h) |
| Asia | 10-14 hours | Tokyo (12h), Singapore (13h) |
| Australia | 21-24 hours | Sydney (22h, with connection) |
Seasonal Flight Time Variations
| Route | Winter (Nov-Mar) | Summer (Jun-Aug) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York to London | 6h 15m – 6h 45m | 6h 45m – 7h 15m | +30 minutes in summer |
| London to New York | 8h – 8h 30m | 7h 30m – 8h | -30 minutes in summer |
| Los Angeles to London | 10h – 10h 30m | 10h 30m – 11h | +30 minutes in summer |
| London to Los Angeles | 11h 30m – 12h | 11h – 11h 30m | -30 minutes in summer |
FAQ Section
What is the shortest flight to London from the US?
The shortest flight to London from the US is from Boston, taking approximately 6-7 hours. This is closely followed by New York at 6.5-7 hours. East Coast cities generally offer the quickest transatlantic flights to London due to their proximity across the Atlantic Ocean.
How long is the flight from London to New York?
A flight from London to New York (westbound) typically takes 7.5-8 hours, which is about 30-60 minutes longer than the eastbound journey. This difference is due to prevailing westerly winds and the jet stream, which creates headwinds for aircraft flying from Europe to North America.
Which US airports have the most flights to London?
New York’s JFK and Newark airports offer the most flights to London, with multiple daily departures on various airlines. Other US airports with numerous London flights include Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Los Angeles, Miami, and Washington Dulles. These major gateway cities provide convenient connection options for travelers from smaller markets.
Is it better to fly into Heathrow or Gatwick?
Heathrow is generally more convenient for business travelers and those staying in central or west London, with more frequent and varied transportation options to the city. Gatwick might be preferable for travelers heading to south London or those seeking potentially lower fares on leisure routes.
Heathrow handles more international long-haul flights, particularly from the US, while Gatwick serves a mix of long-haul and European destinations. Your choice might be limited by which airport your preferred airline serves on your route.
How early should I arrive at the airport for a flight to London?
For flights from the US to London, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. International flights require additional time for check-in and security procedures, and transatlantic routes often use larger aircraft that take longer to board.
When returning from London to the US, allow at least 3 hours before departure. US-bound flights from the UK require additional security screening and US immigration preclearance at some airports, which can add to processing time.
Conclusion
Understanding how long a flight to London takes from different departure points helps you better plan your trip to the UK’s vibrant capital. Flight times vary significantly based on your location, with East Coast cities enjoying relatively quick 6-7 hour journeys while West Coast travelers face longer 10-11 hour flights.
When planning your London adventure, consider factors like seasonal timing, jet lag management, and practical logistics such as airport transfers and luggage storage. Services like Radical Storage can enhance your experience by providing convenient solutions for storing your bags while you explore the city.
Whether you’re visiting London for business or pleasure, knowing what to expect for your flight duration and how to manage the journey efficiently will help ensure your trip starts and ends on a positive note. Safe travels to one of the world’s most exciting and historic cities!