London's fastest growing airport, has won high praise in the past for its spacious and people-friendly terminal. As its popularity grows, however, it is becoming a victim of its own success and is now addressing the problems of expansion.
It was opened, to much acclaim, in 1991 when the airport handled under 2 million passengers each year. As it enters the 21st century that figure is heading towards its present 8 million capacity and the strains are starting to show. It is no longer a place where you can guarantee a seat in the lounge at peak times or a relatively short line at the check-in desk.
The airport has started construction of a second terminal, alongside the existing facility, and it is quite clearly needed.
The airport has won planning permission to increase its capacity to 15 million passengers per year and extensions to the existing terminal are on the drawing board. They are going to be needed.
In terms of growth Stansted is outstripping its bigger brethren at Heathrow and Gatwick and the trend is expected to continue. An influx of low-cost airlines, seeking a cheaper and more convenient alternative to London's major airports, has contributed to the boom.
The single terminal, whose glass and steel construction give a light and spacious feel, houses both arrivals and departures and has integrated road and rail services. The short-term car park is close to the terminal but is often overcrowded. For long-stay passengers the parking arrangements are distant and involve a time consuming bus ride.
Inside the terminal catering and retail facilities are conveniently located and there is a shared lounge departure lounge for both international and domestic passengers once they have cleared security and passport checks. BAA, the airport's owner, has so far resisted turning the airport into a shopping mall but more outlets are being added. The food is standard airport fare but served in mostly pleasant surroundings.
Stansted's principal drawback is its location north east of London. It is the furthest from the city of the UK capital's three major airports. There is a direct train service from the airport to London's Liverpool Street station, which runs every 15 minutes on weekdays. It is handy for the financial district but not so convenient for other locations. The train offers business class tickets and comforts for an extra charge.
A rail transit system moves passengers between the terminal and the boarding gates which are located in two satellite buildings. Latecomers dashing for a flight may find it adds to their frustrations as the journey takes time.
