25/10/2016
Arriving at or departing from London Southend Airport offers a surprising array of transport options, but for many, the convenience and directness of a taxi remain unrivalled. Whether you're heading straight home after a long flight or need a swift connection to your next destination, understanding how to access taxi services and navigate the airport's drop-off and pick-up protocols is key to a stress-free journey. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing a taxi at Southend Airport, alongside crucial information regarding drop-off procedures and alternative travel methods, ensuring your airport experience is as smooth as possible.
When you land at Southend Airport, one of your primary concerns will undoubtedly be how to get to your final destination quickly and efficiently. For many, a taxi is the preferred choice, offering door-to-door service and the comfort of not having to worry about public transport schedules or luggage. The good news is that Southend Airport makes accessing taxis incredibly straightforward, ensuring a seamless transition from the terminal building to your onward journey.
- Official Taxi Services at Southend Airport
- Understanding Southend Airport Drop-Off and Pick-Up Charges
- Southend Airport Parking Options
- Connecting from Southend Airport: Alternative Transport
- Airport Facilities: Currency Exchange and ATMs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a free drop-off option at Southend Airport?
- Where is the taxi rank at Southend Airport?
- Who is the official taxi service at Southend Airport?
- What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss the last train?
- Can I pay for my taxi with a card at Southend Airport?
- What is the postcode for Southend Airport drop-off?
- Are there cash machines at Southend Airport?
Official Taxi Services at Southend Airport
For your peace of mind and convenience, Southend Airport has an official taxi service provider. This ensures reliability, professional drivers, and a clear understanding of airport operations and local routes. The designated taxi service at London Southend Airport is Andrew’s Taxis. They are the trusted partner for airport transfers, known for their punctuality and customer service.
You can easily contact Andrew’s Taxis directly for pre-bookings or enquiries. Their contact number is +44 (0) 1702 200 200. This is particularly useful if you prefer to arrange your transport in advance, especially for early morning flights or late-night arrivals, giving you one less thing to worry about upon landing.
Where to Find the Taxi Rank
Locating a taxi at Southend Airport couldn't be simpler. The official taxi rank is conveniently positioned directly in front of the terminal building. As you exit arrivals, you'll find the taxis waiting just a short stroll away, making it incredibly easy to hop into a cab with minimal fuss, even if you're laden with luggage. This direct access ensures that your wait time for a taxi is usually minimal, especially during peak hours when flights are arriving or departing.
Southend Airport understands that travel plans can sometimes go awry, particularly with flight delays. To assist passengers who find themselves stranded late at night after the last train has departed, Andrew’s Taxis offers a valuable late-night share taxi scheme. This initiative provides a cost-effective solution for multiple passengers heading in the same general direction.
The scheme operates with a minimum requirement of four people. The cost per person for this shared service is £27.50. However, if there are fewer than four passengers wishing to utilise the service, the total cost of £110 will be shared amongst the passengers present. This innovative scheme highlights the airport's commitment to ensuring passengers can reach their destinations safely and affordably, even when unexpected delays occur.
Understanding Southend Airport Drop-Off and Pick-Up Charges
Whether you're being dropped off by a friend, family member, or a private hire vehicle, or you're arranging a pick-up, it's crucial to be aware of Southend Airport's drop-off and pick-up charges. These charges are in place to manage traffic flow and ensure efficient use of the airport's infrastructure. There are different options available, catering to various needs from quick drop-offs to longer waiting times.
Standard Drop-Off/Pick-Up Charges (Short Stay Area)
For quick drop-offs or pick-ups directly at the terminal, the following charges apply:
| Duration | Charge |
|---|---|
| 0-10 minutes | £5.00 |
| 10-30 minutes | £8.50 |
| 30-45 minutes | £12.00 |
| 45-60 minutes | £15.00 |
These charges are designed for swift access to the terminal. If you anticipate needing more time, or if you plan to enter the terminal to meet someone, the Short Stay Car Park might be a more suitable option.
Southend Airport Drop Off Short Stay Car Park Charges
The Short Stay Car Park is located directly opposite the terminal, making it the most convenient option for those who need a bit more time for pick-ups or drop-offs, or for those accompanying passengers inside the terminal. It's also the only car park with a waiting shelter, which can be a significant advantage, particularly during inclement weather. However, due to its convenience and amenities, it can become quite busy.
| Duration | Charge |
|---|---|
| 1-2 hours | £20.00 |
| 2-3 hours | £22.50 |
| 3-4 hours | £25.00 |
| 4-9 hours | £35.00 |
| 9-24 hours | £45.00 |
| Each additional 24 hours | £45.00 |
These rates provide flexibility for various lengths of stay, ensuring you have ample time without rushing, though it's important to factor these costs into your travel budget.
Free Drop-Off at Southend Airport
For those looking to save on drop-off charges, Southend Airport offers a free option at the Long Stay 3 car park. This car park provides a generous 15 minutes of free drop-off time within a 24-hour period. It's an excellent choice for a quick farewell without incurring any cost.
Long Stay Car Park 3 is approximately 200 metres from the terminal building. While it requires a short walk, it's a manageable distance, typically taking between 3 to 5 minutes. To utilise this free drop-off, simply head towards Long Stay Car Park 3. Be mindful that Southend Airport also has Long Stay Car Parks 1 and 2, so ensure you follow signs specifically for Long Stay 3 to access the free drop-off zone.
Blue Badge Parking and Drop-Off
Southend Airport provides specific provisions for Blue Badge holders, ensuring accessibility and convenience. For pick-up and drop-off, Blue Badge holders can either use the Long Stay 3 car park for the 15-minute free drop-off, or they can use the Short Stay Car Park where standard charges apply. This offers flexibility based on individual needs and preferred proximity to the terminal.
For longer-term parking, dedicated Blue Badge bays are available in Southend Airport's Long Stay Car Parks 1 and 2. Long Stay 1's Blue Badge bays are generally closer to the terminal building than those in Long Stay 2, offering a slightly shorter walk. While it is advised to pre-book parking to secure a spot and potentially better rates, Blue Badge holders can also turn up on the day and park.
Southend Airport Drop Off Postcode
For easy navigation using a satellite navigation system, the postcode for London Southend Airport is SS2 6YF. When entering this into your sat-nav, ensure you follow the signage upon arrival to direct you to the specific drop-off area or car park you intend to use.
Southend Airport Parking Options
While the focus here is on taxis, understanding the full parking landscape at Southend Airport is beneficial for anyone involved in drop-offs or pick-ups, or simply for context. Southend Airport offers three long stay car parks, each with slightly different pricing and proximity to the terminal.
- Long Stay Car Park 1: Priced at £35 for 24 hours.
- Long Stay Car Park 2: Priced at £30 for 24 hours.
- Long Stay Car Park 3: Offers 0-15 minutes free, then £30 for 24 hours. This is the free drop-off point mentioned earlier.
For the best value, particularly for longer stays, it is highly recommended to pre-book your parking before you arrive at the airport. However, options are available if you decide to park on the day of travel.
Connecting from Southend Airport: Alternative Transport
Beyond taxis, Southend Airport is well-connected to London and surrounding areas by public transport, offering alternatives depending on your destination, budget, and preference. These options provide excellent flexibility for travellers.
By Train
Southend Airport boasts its own dedicated train station, offering incredibly convenient and rapid links directly into London. This is often the preferred choice for many heading into the capital.
- To London Liverpool Street: The journey takes approximately 52 minutes.
- To Stratford: Reach Stratford in just about 43 minutes.
During peak hours, trains run frequently, with up to six services an hour heading towards the heart of the city. The train service also provides straightforward connections to the new Elizabeth Line, allowing you to reach virtually any part of London with ease. Buying tickets is simple and entirely contactless through the ticket vending machines located in the arrivals area. These self-service machines are operational 24 hours a day, ensuring you can always purchase your ticket regardless of your arrival time.
By Bus
Buses offer another flexible and often more economical way to travel from Southend Airport to various destinations. The main bus stop is conveniently located next to the Holiday Inn, just a short walk from the Southend Airport terminal.
- X30 Bus: This service connects Southend directly to Stansted Airport, passing through Chelmsford. It's an excellent option for onward travel to another major airport. Timetables are available for planning your journey. Tickets are contactless and can be purchased onboard by simply tapping your card.
- Local Routes: Several local bus routes serve the airport, connecting it to nearby towns and areas:
- Route 7: Connects Landwick / Great Wakering to Rayleigh station via Shoeburyness, Thorpe Bay, Southend Airport, Rochford, and Ashingdon.
- Route 8: Connects Landwick / Great Wakering to Rayleigh station via Shoeburyness, Thorpe Bay, Southend Airport, Rochford, and Hawkwell.
- Route 9: Connects Shoeburyness to Rayleigh via Thorpe Bay, Southend Airport, and Eastwood.
Please note that the section of Routes 7 and 8 from Landwick and Great Wakering operates Monday to Saturday only. The Sunday service for these routes starts and terminates at Shoeburyness. All these local bus services are operated by Arriva Bus.
Airport Facilities: Currency Exchange and ATMs
For travellers needing cash for taxis, local purchases, or simply to have some local currency, Southend Airport provides convenient access to cash machines. These machines are available both before and after security, dispensing both Euros and Sterling, catering to a wide range of travellers.
- Before Security: You'll find cash machines inside the terminal building adjacent to the check-in area and within the arrivals area.
- After Security: Additional cash machines are located on the lower level of the departure lounge, ensuring you have access to currency even after passing through security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free drop-off option at Southend Airport?
Yes, you can get a 15-minute free drop-off at Southend Airport's Long Stay 3 car park. This car park is approximately 200m from the terminal and involves a 3-5 minute walk.
Where is the taxi rank at Southend Airport?
The taxi rank is located directly in front of the terminal building, making it very easy to find upon exiting arrivals.
Who is the official taxi service at Southend Airport?
Andrew’s Taxis is the official taxi service for Southend Airport. You can contact them at +44 (0) 1702 200 200.
What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss the last train?
Andrew's Taxis offers a late-night share taxi scheme for passengers whose flights are delayed and the last train has departed. It costs £27.50 per person for a minimum of 4 people, or £110 shared if there are fewer than 4 passengers.
Can I pay for my taxi with a card at Southend Airport?
While the article doesn't explicitly state card payment options for Andrew's Taxis, official airport taxi services typically offer card payment facilities. It is always advisable to confirm with the driver or when booking if you prefer to pay by card.
What is the postcode for Southend Airport drop-off?
The postcode for London Southend Airport, which can be used for navigation, is SS2 6YF.
Are there cash machines at Southend Airport?
Yes, cash machines are available both before and after security in the terminal. They dispense both Euros and Sterling.
Navigating Southend Airport, whether you're arriving or departing, is made straightforward with a clear understanding of the available transport options. From the immediate convenience of Andrew’s Taxis waiting directly outside the terminal, to the flexible drop-off and parking solutions, the airport is designed to facilitate a smooth journey. Coupled with excellent train and bus links to London and beyond, Southend Airport ensures that your onward travel is as efficient and comfortable as possible. Plan ahead, know your options, and enjoy your journey.
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