View source for London Stansted Airport

{{Short description|Tertiary international airport serving London, England, United Kingdom}}
{{For|the previous military use of this facility|RAF Stansted Mountfitchet}}
{{Redirect|Stansted}}
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{{EngvarB|date=July 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2018}}
{{Infobox airport
| name                = Stansted Airport
| image               = MAG London Stansted Airport logo.svg
| image-width         = 250
| image2              = Stansted Airport - geograph.org.uk - 1710808.jpg
| image2-width        = 250
| IATA                = STN
| ICAO                = EGSS
| type                = Public
| owner-oper          = [[Manchester Airports Group]]
| city-served         = {{ubl|class=nowrap
  | [[London metropolitan area]]
  | [[East of England]]}}
| location            = [[Stansted Mountfitchet]], [[Uttlesford]], [[Essex]], [[England]], [[United Kingdom]]
| opened              = {{start date and age|1943|08|07|df=yes}}
| operating_base      = {{ubl|class=nowrap
  | [[Jet2.com]]
  | [[Ryanair]]
  | [[TUI Airways]]}}
| elevation-f         = 348
| coordinates         = {{coord|51|53|06|N|0|14|06|E|type:airport_region:GB-ESS|display=inline,title}}
| website             = {{URL|www.stanstedairport.com}}
| pushpin_map         = Essex#United Kingdom#England
| pushpin_label       = '''STN'''/EGSS
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in [[Essex]]
| metric-rwy          = Yes
| r1-number           = 04/22
| r1-length-m         = 3,049
| r1-surface          = Grooved [[Asphalt concrete|Asphalt]]
| stat-year           = 2022
| stat1-header        = Passengers
| stat1-data          = 23,290,097
| stat2-header        = Passenger change 21-22
| stat2-data          = {{increase}} 226%
| stat3-header        = Aircraft movements
| stat3-data          = 159,502
| stat4-header        = {{nowrap|Movements change 21-22}}
| stat4-data          = {{increase}} 107%
| footnotes           = Sources: UK [[Aeronautical Information Publication|AIP]] at [[National Air Traffic Services|NATS]]<ref name="aip">{{cite web |url=http://www.nats-uk.ead-it.com/public/index.php%3Foption%3Dcom_content%26task%3Dblogcategory%26id%3D96%26Itemid%3D145.html |title=Stansted – EGSS |publisher=Nats-uk.ead-it.com |access-date=6 September 2013 |archive-date=12 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120312060132/http://www.nats-uk.ead-it.com/public/index.php%3Foption%3Dcom_content%26task%3Dblogcategory%26id%3D96%26Itemid%3D145.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />Statistics from the [[Civil Aviation Authority (United Kingdom)|UK Civil Aviation Authority]]<ref name="stats">{{cite web |url=http://www.caa.co.uk/Data-and-analysis/UK-aviation-market/Airports/Datasets/ |title=Aircraft and passenger traffic data from UK airports |publisher=[[Civil Aviation Authority (United Kingdom)|UK Civil Aviation Authority]] |date=21 March 2023 |access-date=25 March 2023}}</ref>
}}

'''Stansted Airport''' {{airport codes|STN|EGSS}} is an [[international airport]] serving [[London]], the capital of [[England]] and the [[United Kingdom]]. It is located near [[Stansted Mountfitchet]], [[Uttlesford]], [[Essex]], {{convert|42|mi|abbr=on}} northeast of [[Central London]].

As London's [[Airports of London|third-busiest airport]], Stansted serves over 180 destinations across Europe, Asia and North Africa. London Stansted is a base for a number of European low-cost carriers. This includes being the largest base for low-cost airline [[Ryanair]], with over 150 destinations served by the airline. {{As of|2022}}, it is the [[Busiest airports in the United Kingdom by total passenger traffic|fourth-busiest airport]] in the United Kingdom after [[Heathrow Airport|Heathrow]], [[Gatwick Airport|Gatwick]], and [[Manchester Airport|Manchester]].<ref>CAA document for 2022: [https://www.caa.co.uk/Documents/Download/9077/31632962-d7b6-4df4-a5fd-6df78e65d88c/5578 "Size of Reporting Airports January 2022 - December 2022"] All years: [https://www.caa.co.uk/data-and-analysis/uk-aviation-market/airports/uk-airport-data/ "UK airport data"]</ref>
During the [[COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom|COVID-19 pandemic]] in 2021, it ranked second in the country.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Annual airport data 2021 {{!}} Civil Aviation Authority |url=https://www.caa.co.uk/data-and-analysis/uk-aviation-market/airports/uk-airport-data/uk-airport-data-2021/annual-2021/ |access-date=2022-11-15 |website=www.caa.co.uk}}</ref> Stansted's runway is also used by private companies such as the [[Harrods Aviation]], [[Titan Airways]], and XJet terminals, which are private ground handlers that can handle private flights, charter flights, and state visits.

Converted to civil use from [[RAF Stansted Mountfitchet]] in the late 1940s, Stansted was used by charter airlines. It came under British Airports Authority control in 1966. The privatised
[[Heathrow Airport Holdings|BAA]] sold Stansted in February 2013 to [[Manchester Airports Group]] <!-- (MAG) --> as a result of a March 2009 ruling by the [[Competition Commission]] against BAA's monopoly position.<ref>{{cite news |title=Stansted Airport being sold to Manchester for £1.5bn |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21093783 |work=BBC News|location=London |date=19 January 2013 |access-date=28 February 2013 |archive-date=18 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130218162349/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21093783 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=£1.5&nbsp;billion Stansted Airport sale complete |author=Sinead Holland |url=http://www.harlowstar.co.uk/News/Harlow-news/15-billion-Stansted-Airport-sale-complete-20130228174702.htm |newspaper=Harlow Star |date=28 February 2013 |access-date=28 February 2013 |archive-date=30 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230235646/http://www.harlowstar.co.uk/News/Harlow-news/15-billion-Stansted-Airport-sale-complete-20130228174702.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Overview==
London Stansted Airport is located near the village of [[Stansted Mountfitchet]]. It has one main passenger terminal, with three passenger satellites containing the departure gates; one is connected to the main terminal by air bridges, one by the [[Stansted Airport Transit System]] people mover, and one by both.

The terminal building was designed by [[Foster and Partners]] with input from structural engineer [[Peter Rice]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/news/architecture-genius-expressed-in-nuts-and-bolts-peter-rice-is-an-engineer-revered-by-the-worlds-top-1530478.html|title=Architecture: Genius expressed in nuts and bolts: Peter Rice is an|work=The Independent|access-date=2018-10-27|language=en-GB|archive-date=28 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181028055244/https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/news/architecture-genius-expressed-in-nuts-and-bolts-peter-rice-is-an-engineer-revered-by-the-worlds-top-1530478.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and features a "floating" roof, supported by a [[space frame]] of inverted-pyramid roof trusses, creating the impression of a stylised swan in flight. The base of each truss structure is a "utility pillar", which provides indirect uplighting illumination and is the location for air-conditioning, water, telecommunications, and electrical outlets. The layout of the airport was originally designed to provide an unobstructed flow for passengers to arrive at the short-stay car park, move through the check-in hall, and go through security and on to the departure gates, all on the same level.

From 1997 to 2007, Stansted had rapid expansion of passenger numbers on the back of the boom in low-cost air travel, peaking at 24&nbsp;million passengers in the 12 months to October 2007, but passenger numbers declined in the next five years. Passenger totals later increased, and in 2016 recorded an annual increase of 8.0% to 24.3&nbsp;million, and numbers have since continued to rise.<ref name="stats"/>

==History==
[[File:Before Stansted Airport aa.jpg|thumb|300px|Where Stansted Airport is now, in about 1935]]
[[File:B-26-stanst.jpg|thumb|A [[Martin B-26 Marauder]] of the 344th Bomb Group at Stansted, 1944]]
[[File:Avro 685 York XF919.G-AMUS Air Charter STA 10.4.55 edited-2.jpg|thumb|[[Avro York]] of the based [[Air Charter Limited|Air Charter Ltd]] taking off on a trooping flight in 1955 with wartime hangars in the background]]

===Second World War===
{{Main article|RAF Stansted Mountfitchet}}

The airfield opened in early July 1943 with a dedication ceremony for the Stansted Airfield with a parade of builders, the 825th Engineer Aviation Battalion EAB and the 850th Engineer Aviation Battalion EAB of the United States Army, along with a small group of the British Royal Engineers who offered to help and wanted to learn how to operate the heavy construction equipment.<ref>The Trials & Triumphs of a Regimental Commander During World War II By Colonel Thomas A. Glass p. 130</ref> Stansted Mountfitchet Airport was used during the Second World War as [[RAF Stansted Mountfitchet]] by the [[Royal Air Force]] and the [[United States Army Air Forces]] as a bomber airfield and as a major maintenance depot. Although the official name was Stansted Mountfitchet, the base was known as simply Stansted in both written and spoken form.

The station was first allocated to the [[USAAF]] [[Eighth Air Force]] in August 1942 as a heavy-bomber airfield. As well as an operational bomber base, Stansted was also an [[Air Materiel Command#Air Technical Services Command|Air Technical Services Command]] <!-- (ATSC) --> maintenance and supply depot concerned with major overhauls and modification of B-26s. After D-Day, these activities were transferred to France, but the base was still used as a supply storage area for the support of aircraft on the continent.

===Postwar use===
After the withdrawal of the Americans on 12 August 1945, Stansted was taken over by the [[Air Ministry]] and used by No. 263 Maintenance Unit, RAF, for storage purposes. In addition, between March 1946 and August 1947, Stansted was used for housing German prisoners of war.<ref name="AIllfeb78 p70">Wright ''Aircraft Illustrated'' February 1978, p. 70.</ref>

In November 1946, the recently established British cargo airline, London Aero and Motor Services, equipped with ex-RAF [[Handley Page Halifax]]es, moved into Stansted, using it as a base for its operations until it was wound up in July 1948.<ref name="AIllfeb78 p70-1">Wright ''Aircraft Illustrated'' February 1978, pp. 70–71.</ref>

The Ministry of Civil Aviation finally took control of Stansted in 1949 and the airport was then used as a base by several UK charter airlines. The US military returned in 1954 to extend the runway for a possible transfer to [[NATO]].{{cn|date=August 2024}} The transfer to NATO was never realised, however, and the airport continued in civil use, ending up under [[BAA Limited|BAA]] control in 1966.{{cn|date=August 2024}}

During the 1960s, '70s, and early '80s, the Fire Service Training School <!-- (FSTS) --> was based on the eastern side of the airfield under the auspices of the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, now the Civil Aviation Authority. The school was responsible for the training of all aviation fire crews for British airfields, as well as those of many overseas countries.{{cn|date=August 2024}}
[[File:Stansted 1980s?.jpg|thumb|The pre-1991 terminal]]

=== Under BAA ownership (1966–2013) ===
[[File:London Stansted Airport main entrance.jpg|thumb|The terminal building at night]]
[[File:London Stansted Airport main hall 1.jpg|thumb|The arrivals hall]]
Beginning in 1966, after Stansted was placed under [[British Airports Authority|BAA]] control, the airport was used by holiday charter operators wishing to escape the higher costs associated with operating from Heathrow and Gatwick.
[[File:London Stansted Airport Air View.jpg|thumb|Aerial view of Stansted]]

Stansted had been held in reserve as a third London airport since the 1950s. However, after a public inquiry at Chelmsford in 1966–67, the government set up the Roskill Commission to review the need afresh. The Commission for the Third London Airport (the "[[Roskill Commission]]") of 1968–71 did not include Stansted as one of its four short-listed sites and recommended that [[Cublington]] in Buckinghamshire should be developed as London's third airport.<ref>Roskill (1971). Report, Commission on the Third London Airport. London: HMSO.</ref> However, the Conservative government under Ted Heath agreed with a minority recommendation that a site at Foulness in the Thames Estuary, later renamed Maplin, should be developed, but in 1974, the incoming Labour government under Harold Wilson cancelled the Maplin project because of the economic situation.<ref name="auto">{{Cite book|title=Inside London's Airports Policy: Indecision, decision and counter-decision|last=Le Blond|first=Paul|publisher=ICE Publishing|year=2018|isbn=9780727763655|location=London}}</ref>

Stansted was then considered as an option for long-term development in the Advisory Committee on Airports Policy <!-- (ACAP) --> and the Study Group on South East Airports <!-- (SGSEA) --> and was selected from a short list of six by the Conservative government in December 1979. The proposal, for a new terminal associated with the existing runway and the safeguarding of land for a second runway, was considered at the Airports Inquiries of 1981–83. The ''Inspector's Report'' was published in 1984 and the decision, announced in a white paper in 1985, was to approve a plan to develop Stansted in two phases, involving both airfield and terminal improvements that would increase the airport's capacity to 15&nbsp;million passengers per year, but to reject the second runway.<ref name="auto"/>

==== Redevelopment into London's third airport ====
The redevelopment of Stansted into [[London's third airport]] began with outline [[Planning permission in the United Kingdom|planning permission]] granted in 1985, for a new terminal building to accommodate up to 15 million passengers annually.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Airports Policy (Hansard, 17 June 1985) |url=https://api.parliament.uk/historic-hansard/commons/1985/jun/17/airports-policy-1 |access-date=2024-10-20 |website=api.parliament.uk}}</ref>

Initially, the project was planned in two phases. The first phase was designed to permit an annual capacity of 8 million passengers, while the second phase was intended to expand the terminal's capacity to 15 million passengers per annum.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 2010 |title=Making a material difference London Stansted Airport Waste Management Strategy 2010-2015 |url=https://mag-umbraco-media-live.s3.amazonaws.com/1096/stalwastestrategy_stn.pdf |website=London Stansted Airport}}</ref> It was initially believed that any future development beyond this capacity would require the construction of a second major terminal building.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |last=McCarthy |first=Lucie |date=September 2023 |title=HERITAGE STATEMENT Stansted Airport Terminal Extension |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65097f3b22a783001343e86c/Stansted_Airport_Heritage_Statement_FINAL.pdf |website=gov.uk}}</ref>

==== Foster Associates terminal ====
[[Foster and Partners|Foster Associates]], founded by architect [[Norman Foster, Baron Foster of Thames Bank|Norman Foster]], was commissioned to design the new terminal building, with [[Ove Arup & Partners]] as principal engineers. The plans were approved in 1985, and construction took place between 1988 and 1991<ref>Ritchie, p. 173</ref> by the [[John Laing Group|John Laing company]] at a cost of £100 million.<ref>''Above Us The Skies: The Story Of BAA''&nbsp;– 1991 (Michael Donne&nbsp;– BAA plc), p. 62-63</ref> The terminal building originally comprised a square structure of 11 bays by 11 bays, and opened to the public in 1991. It received the [[European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture|European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture (Mies van der Rohe Award)]] in 1990. As part of the development, a railway branch was built to the airport for [[Stansted Airport railway station]], built at ground level within the terminal.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Blow |first1=Christopher |title=Transport Terminals and Modal Interchanges |date=2005 |publisher=Architectural Press |isbn=0-7506-5693-X |edition=1 |location=Oxford |page=70 |chapter=6: Taxonomy of rail, bus/coach and air transport interchanges}}</ref>

The building was recognised as a landmark work of high-tech architecture. Foster + Partners' design for Stansted Airport is widely regarded as a transformative influence on airport architecture.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-11-25 |title=Stansted Airport "challenged the rules of terminal design" |url=https://www.dezeen.com/2019/11/25/stansted-airport-foster-partners-high-tech-architecture/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=Dezeen |language=en}}</ref> The building features open canopies that visually connect the landside and airside,<ref name=":02" /> and challenged conventional airport layouts by relocating essential services underground, instead creating an open and flexible main concourse that is naturally illuminated. These principals influenced the design of future projects around the world.<ref>{{Cite web |last=dwtransportwriting |date=2015-12-02 |title=The Upside Down Airport (London Stansted Airport, UK) |url=https://thebeautyoftransport.com/2015/12/02/the-upside-down-airport-london-stansted-airport-uk/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=The Beauty of Transport |language=en}}</ref>

In 1999, planning permission was granted for Phase 2 of the terminal expansion, which included extending the width to 15 bays, as well as the addition of the third satellite building.<ref name=":02" />

==== Further developments ====
A major expansion programme to the terminal took place between 2007 and 2009, extending the width by 2 bays, with nearly {{convert|5900|m2|abbr=on}} of floorspace,  to give space for additional [[baggage carousel]]s, a new immigration and passport control hall.

In November 2006, [[Uttlesford]] District Council rejected a BAA planning application to increase the permitted number of aircraft movements and to remove the limit on passenger numbers. BAA immediately appealed against the decision and a public inquiry opened, lasting from May until October 2007. Planning Inspector Alan Boyland made his recommendations in January 2008. {{Citation needed|date=May 2017}} Those recommendations were largely followed by the Secretary of State for Transport ([[Geoff Hoon]]) and the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (Hazel Blears), who jointly allowed the applicant's appeal in October 2008. A legal challenge by community campaign group Stop Stansted Expansion <!-- (SSE) --> was rejected by the High Court in March 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2009/mar/13/stop-stansted-loses-legal-battle|title=Stop Stansted Expansion group loses legal battle|last=Percival|first=Jenny|date=2009-03-13|website=The Guardian|language=en|access-date=2018-10-27|archive-date=8 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181208124721/https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2009/mar/13/stop-stansted-loses-legal-battle|url-status=live}}</ref>

The Competition Commission ruled in March 2009 that BAA should sell Gatwick and Stansted Airports within two years.<ref>{{cite news |title=BAA could challenge airport sale |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7951377.stm |work=BBC News |date=19 March 2009 |access-date=28 February 2013 |archive-date=21 March 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090321094442/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7951377.stm |url-status=live}}</ref> The ruling was quashed within a year following an appeal, but was subsequently upheld.<ref>{{cite news |title=BAA sell-off back on track after court ruling |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11531559 |work=BBC News |date=13 October 2010 |access-date=28 February 2013 |archive-date=1 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110901233547/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11531559 |url-status=live}}</ref> The Competition Commission reconfirmed its ruling in July 2011 that the airport be sold,<ref>{{cite news|title=BAA loses final Competition Commission sell-off ruling|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-14196639|access-date=19 July 2011|work=BBC News|date=19 July 2011|archive-date=19 July 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719112712/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-14196639|url-status=live}}</ref> and the [[Court of Appeal of England and Wales|Court of Appeal]] turned down an appeal by BAA on 26 July 2012.<ref>{{cite news |title=BAA loses latest appeal against Stansted sale |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-19001159 |work=BBC News |date=26 July 2012 |access-date=28 February 2013 |archive-date=27 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130127211226/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-19001159 |url-status=live}}</ref> In light of the result, BAA chose not to appeal to the [[Supreme Court of the United Kingdom]] and confirmed on 20 August 2012 that the airport would be sold.<ref>{{cite news |title=Stansted Airport to be sold by BAA |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-19318094 |work=BBC News |date=20 August 2012 |access-date=28 February 2013 |archive-date=5 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130305092009/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-19318094 |url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Under MAG ownership (2013'''–''') ===
In January 2013 it was announced that [[Manchester Airport Holdings|MAG (Manchester Airports Group)]] had agreed to purchase London Stansted Airport for £1.5 billion.<ref name="Sale">{{Cite news |date=18 January 2013 |title=Stansted Airport being sold to Manchester for £1.5bn |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21093783 |accessdate=18 January 2013 |newspaper=BBC News}}</ref> The sale was completed on 28 February 2013.<ref name="Holland">{{cite news |author=Sinead Holland |date=28 February 2013 |title=£1.5 billion Stansted Airport sale complete |url=http://www.harlowstar.co.uk/News/Harlow-news/15-billion-Stansted-Airport-sale-complete-20130228174702.htm |accessdate=1 March 2013 |newspaper=Harlow Star}}</ref>

MAG announced on 20 June 2013 as part of a visit to the airport by the Secretary of State for Transport that it would be launching an £80&nbsp;million terminal redevelopment programme. MAG has invested £40&nbsp;million and the remainder was invested by other commercial partners. The redevelopment included relocation of the security area, doubling the amount of seating, and improving the information displays. The new Departure Lounge offers a food court, new shops, and an Escape Lounge.

In 2017, [[Antonov Airlines]] opened a UK office at Stansted for cargo charter flights, generally of outsize loads.<ref name=aircargonews-20170220>{{cite news |url=http://www.aircargonews.net/news/airlines/single-view/news/uk-office-handles-antonov-airlines-charter.html |title=UK office handles Antonov Airlines charter |newspaper=aircargonews |date=20 February 2017 |access-date=26 February 2017 |archive-date=27 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227062322/http://www.aircargonews.net/news/airlines/single-view/news/uk-office-handles-antonov-airlines-charter.html |url-status=live}}</ref>

==== COVID-19 pandemic and recovery ====
The [[COVID-19 pandemic]] had a severe impact on London Stansted Airport, leading to a significant reduction in passenger numbers and operational challenges. In 2020, the airport served just over 7.5 million passengers, a large decline from its pre-pandemic levels of around 28 million annually.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=2021-03-15 |title=Stansted Airport anniversary overshadowed by 'crisis like no other' |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-essex-56385982 |access-date=2024-10-16 |language=en-GB}}</ref> At the height of the crisis, Stansted experienced a 95% drop in passenger footfall compared to 2019.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2021-04-21 |title=Coronavirus one year on: Stansted suffers 95 drop in passengers |url=https://www.saffronwaldenreporter.co.uk/news/21875763.coronavirus-one-year-stansted-suffers-95-drop-passengers/ |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=Saffron Walden Reporter |language=en}}</ref> [[Cargo aircraft|Cargo operations]], however, saw a 53% increase as the airport adapted to new demands.<ref name=":1" /> Airport authorities described the situation as an unprecedented crisis, likening the passenger levels to those seen in the early 1990s.<ref name=":0" /> 

As travel restrictions began to ease in July 2021, London Stansted Airport experienced widespread disruption as passenger numbers surged during the summer holidays. The airport faced staff shortages and increased COVID-19 documentation requirements, leading to long queues and chaotic scenes, with insufficient personnel available to manage the crowds effectively.<ref>{{Cite web |title=COVID-19: 'Total chaos' at UK airports on busiest weekend this year - with COVID checks and lack of staff blamed |url=https://news.sky.com/story/covid-19-total-chaos-at-uk-airports-on-busiest-weekend-this-year-with-covid-checks-and-lack-of-staff-blamed-12363202 |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=Sky News |language=en}}</ref> The airport showed signs of recovery by late 2022, with passenger levels nearing 97% of pre-pandemic volumes.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-19 |title=New Ryanair routes drive record recovery at Stansted Airport |url=https://www.bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk/news/new-ryanair-routes-drive-recovery-at-stansted-airport-9290146/ |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=Bishop's Stortford Independent |language=en}}</ref>

In the wake of this recovery, in 2023 Stansted Airport announced a £1.1 billion expansion plan including a £600m extension of the terminal and facilities,<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=London Stansted Airport Eyeing 2025 Start On Terminal Extension Construction {{!}} Aviation Week Network |url=https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airports-networks/london-stansted-airport-eyeing-2025-start-terminal-extension |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=aviationweek.com}}</ref> to increase its capacity to serve up to 43 million passengers per year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Henderson |first=Alice |date=15 Oct 2024 |title=Stansted airport outlines £1.1 billion investment plan over five years |url=https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2024/10/15/stansted-airport-outlines-1-1-billion-investment-plan-over-five-years/ |website=Business Traveller}}</ref> This expansion is expected to add 200 flights per day to the airport's schedule and create over 5,000 jobs over the next five years.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Taylor |first=Guy |date=2024-10-14 |title=Stansted Airport to add 5,000 jobs as part of £1.1bn expansion plan |url=https://www.cityam.com/stansted-airport-to-add-5000-jobs-as-part-of-1-1bn-expansion-plan/ |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=CityAM |language=en-GB}}</ref>

==Infrastructure==
===Terminal and satellite buildings===
The terminal is separated into three general areas: Check-in and main concourse along the front, departures towards the southern end, and international arrivals to the northern end of the building. There is a separate baggage reclaim for Domestic arrivals. No gates are in the main terminal building; instead, they are located in three separate oblong satellite buildings, with the exception of four bussing gates which are accessed below the main terminal building. The airport has 52 gates with 12 serviceable [[jetbridges]]. Long-term plans for Satellite 4, approved in 1999 and revised in 2005, have not been realised,<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=2015 |title=SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2015 |url=https://assets.live.dxp.maginfrastructure.com/f/73114/x/35bbc162fa/stn-sustainable-development-plan-land-use-2015.pdf |website=stanstedsairport.com}}</ref> but its site was developed as remote stands in 2018.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=16 Oct 2018 |title=New aircraft stands at London Stansted Airport |url=https://www.britpave.org.uk/news/New-aircraft-stands-at-London-Stansted-Airport/113875}}</ref>

As of 2013, Satellite 1 (Gates 1-19) had been redeveloped with the aim to attract more long-haul airlines to Stansted.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.stanstedairport.com/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/transport-secretary-launches-%C2%A380-million-terminal-redevelopment |title=Transport Secretary Launches £80 Million Terminal Redevelopment |date=20 June 2013 |publisher=London Stansted Airport |access-date=11 February 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221234429/http://www.stanstedairport.com/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/transport-secretary-launches-%C2%A380-million-terminal-redevelopment |archive-date=21 February 2014}}</ref> Furthermore, a dual [[jetbridge]] has been added at Stand 13 (Boarding Gate 12), allowing faster boarding and deboarding of wide-body aircraft. An additional building, known as the Advanced Passenger Vehicle (APV), was brought back into use in 2016 for flights departing during the busy 06:00 to 09:00 period.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stacc.info/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/160617-STACC-Airport-Management-Report-June-2016.pdf|title=Airport Management Report|access-date=10 September 2016|archive-date=2 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202001211/http://www.stacc.info/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/160617-STACC-Airport-Management-Report-June-2016.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> The APV building is linked to the main terminal building by an accessible route and acts as a bus terminal for international flights at remote stands. Prior to the completion of Satellite 3, this terminal (then consisted of gates 90–95) was in regular passenger use.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Satellite building !! Gate numbers !! Passenger access !! Notes
|-
| Satellite 1 || 1{{ndash}}19 || [[Stansted Airport Transit System|Transit system]] || Used by most major airlines such as British Airways, Emirates, Pegasus, TUI and Jet2. This area is not used by Ryanair and EasyJet, furthest in distance but first stop on transit from the main terminal. Around four minutes transit ride{{snd}} this terminal has 10 [[jetbridges]] at gates 1,2,3,4,6,7,12,13,16 and 19.{{Citation needed|date=October 2024}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | Satellite 2
| 20{{ndash}}39 || Transit system || Used by AJet, Play, Ryanair and occasionally EasyJet. Situated in the upper level of Satellite 2 accessed via the second stop on transit from the main terminal. [[Jetbridges]] must be accessed by stairs, by lift or by escalator one floor down (same level as gates 81{{ndash}}88). Around seven minutes transit ride. Only three of the jetbridges (Gates 30/88, 32/87 and 37) are in service as of October 2024.{{Citation needed|date=October 2024}}
|-
| 81–88 || {{nowrap|Walkway from main terminal}} || Used by EasyJet as well as Ryanair and occasionally by other airlines, for international and domestic departures; provides exit route for UK arrivals. International arriving passengers and those from the [[Common Travel Area]] are transferred to the international arrivals hall by bus. Located below gates 20{{ndash}}39, and only takes up half of the first floor, but parallel to the [[jetbridges]], which are also used by gates 20{{ndash}}39. Around ten minutes walk from the terminal.
|-
| Satellite 3 || 40{{ndash}}59 || Walkway from main terminal || Used exclusively by Ryanair; this building is not equipped with [[jet bridge]]s. Around 15{{nbsp}}minutes walk from the main terminal.
|-
|APV
|90–93
|Walkway from main terminal
|Used by Ryanair during peak times; acts as a terminal for buses to remote stands. The access to the gates is underneath the main terminal, next to the quiet zone. Around a four minute walk from the main passenger area.
|}

Domestic arrivals (from the UK) use a separate exit route, located at the opposite end of the Terminal to the International arrivals hall. This exit is connected solely by footbridge from Satellite 2 gates 81{{ndash}}88. When a domestic flight arrives at a gate which is not located in Satellite 2, passengers are transported to a gate on Satellite 2 by a courtesy bus service from the aircraft.

[[Common Travel Area]] arrivals are coached from stand, and taken to an separate entrance located at the North East of the terminal which leads to the main terminal baggage reclaim belts, bypassing Border Force, but without bypassing Customs.

===Car parks ===
Stansted has a variety of car parking including long-, mid-, and short-stay options along with valet and meet-and-greet parking services. Two drop off areas also are available. The express area is located near the short-stay car park, while a free service is within the mid-stay area. A fee is charged for the express service.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stanstedairport.com/transport-and-directions/pick-up-and-drop-off|title=Pick Up and Drop Off|access-date=2 June 2015|archive-date=2 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402102528/http://www.stanstedairport.com/transport-and-directions/pick-up-and-drop-off|url-status=live}}</ref> Terminal Road North and its free drop-off area directly outside the terminal was closed shortly after MAG took over the airport in 2013.

===Control tower===
[[File:Stansted Airport - geograph.org.uk - 1761312.jpg|thumb|The Terminal Building with the adjacent [[Air traffic control tower|control tower]]]]

Stansted's [[air traffic control tower]] was completed in 1996 and was the tallest in Britain at the time of its construction.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mdaconsulting.co.uk/consulting/transport-and-utilities/stansted-airport-control-tower|title=Stansted Airport Control Tower&nbsp;– MDA Consulting|access-date=29 October 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009175913/http://www.mdaconsulting.co.uk/consulting/transport-and-utilities/stansted-airport-control-tower|archive-date=9 October 2011}}</ref> It is located on the southside of the airfield alongside the main terminal building. It replaced the old control tower, which offered poor views of the airfield once the current terminal building was opened in 1991.

===Other facilities===
There are several cargo buildings and hangars around the airfield. The main cargo centre is located by the control tower and handles most cargo operations, including aircraft such as the [[McDonnell Douglas MD-11]] and the [[Boeing 747]]. There are a small number of hangars on the other side of the runway to the rest of the airport. The largest are located at the south east of the airfield, one of which is used by Ryanair.

[[Titan Airways]] has its head office in the Enterprise House on the airport property.<ref>"[http://www.titan-airways.com/contact-us.html Contact Us] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119155604/http://www.titan-airways.com/contact-us.html |date=19 January 2012}}." Titan Airways. Retrieved 16 December 2011. "Titan Airways Ltd Enterprise House Stansted Airport Essex CM24 1RN"</ref> Several airlines at one time had their head offices on the airport property. [[AirUK]] (later [[KLM uk]]) had its head office in the Stansted House.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/19961029012516/http://www.airuk.co.uk/ Home-page]."{{sic}} [[AirUK]]. Retrieved 28 February 2010.</ref><ref>"World Airline Directory." ''[[Flight International]]''. 18–24 March 1998. [http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1998/1998%20-%200608.html?search=Malev 82] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024222514/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1998/1998%20-%200608.html?search=Malev |date=24 October 2012}}.</ref> When [[Buzz (airline)|Buzz]] existed, its head office was in the Endeavour House.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20010702090939/http://www.buzzaway.com/about_us/contact_us.html Contact Us]." [[Buzz (airline)|Buzz]]. Retrieved 2 September 2009.</ref> When [[AB Airlines]] existed, its head office was in the Enterprise House.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/19980130211559/http://www.abairlines.com/company.htm An Introduction to AB Airlines]." AB Airlines. 30 January 1998. Retrieved 7 February 2011. "AB Airlines&nbsp;– Internet Enquiry Office Enterprise House, Stansted Airport Essex. CM24 1RW"</ref> For a period [[Lloyd International Airways]] had its head office at the Lloyd House at Stansted.<ref>"World Airline Directory." ''[[Flight International]]''. 10 April 1969. [http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1969/1969%20-%200652.html?search=%22Lloyd%20International%20Airways%22 580] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104070602/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1969/1969%20-%200652.html?search=%22Lloyd%20International%20Airways%22 |date=4 November 2012}}. "Head Office: Lloyd House, First Avenue, Stansted Airport, Essex."</ref> When [[Go Fly]] existed its head office was at the Enterprise House.<ref>"World Airline Directory." ''[[Flight International]]''. 27 March&nbsp;– 2 April 2001. [http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2001/2001%20-%201065.html?search=%22Go%20Fly%22 77] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130605194240/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2001/2001%20-%201065.html?search=%22Go%20Fly%22 |date=5 June 2013}}. "Enterprise House, 2nd Floor, Stansted Airport, Stansted, Essex, CM241SB, UK"</ref>[[File:Radisson Hotel at Stansted Airport - geograph.org.uk - 321206.jpg|thumb|The Radisson Blu hotel, which is a short walk from the Terminal building]]

=== Hotels ===
Since 2004, Stansted also offers a range of hotel accommodation including [[Holiday Inn Express]], [[Novotel]], [[Premier Inn]], and [[Radisson Blu]] hotels and the recently opened [[Hampton by Hilton]], the last two of which are both within two minutes of the terminal building via an undercover walkway. Regular bus service handles transfers between the terminal building and Stansted's car parks and hotels.

==Proposed developments==
=== Runway ===
==== Plans for a second runway ====
On 11 March 2008, BAA submitted a planning application (titled "G2") to expand the airport by {{convert|3|sqmi|0|abbr=on}} and for the construction of a second runway and terminal, etc., in line with a recommendation in the [[Air transport and the environment (United Kingdom)#Airport development strategy|2003 Air Transport White Paper]] (ATWP). This would have been the subject of a public inquiry, and if approved, would have allowed Stansted to handle more passengers than Heathrow did at the time of the application.<ref>{{Cite news |date=12 March 2008 |title=£2.5bn Stansted Generation 2 planning bid submitted |url=http://www.transportbriefing.co.uk/story.php?id=4781 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081007053448/http://www.transportbriefing.co.uk/story.php?id=4781 |archive-date=7 October 2008 |publisher=Transport Briefing |df=dmy-all}}</ref>

In May 2010, BAA withdrew its plans to build a second runway at Stansted and withdrew the plans to build a new runway at Heathrow.<ref name="withdraw2">BBC News: [http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8701433.stm Heathrow and Stansted runway plans scrapped by BAA] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100527074803/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8701433.stm|date=27 May 2010}}, 24 May 2010. Visited 20 June 2011.</ref>

The ATWP had anticipated that a second runway would be operational by 2011, but this date continued to slip. BAA's 2008 planning application envisaged operation commencing in 2015, and in 2009, BAA revised the anticipated opening date to 2017.

Prior to the United Kingdom's May 2010 general election, all three major political parties pledged not to approve a second runway. Soon after the election, the new government confirmed this, and BAA withdrew its application for planning permission, having spent nearly £200&nbsp;million preparing for the public inquiry and buying up properties.

The public inquiry into BAA's second runway application had been scheduled to start on 15 April 2009, but the start was delayed by Secretary of State [[Hazel Blears]] to allow time for BAA and the government to consider the implications of the March 2009 Competition Commission's ruling that BAA must sell Stansted within two years. As 2011 drew to a close, BAA was still appealing against the Competition Commission ruling. On 20 August 2012, after losing a case at the Court of Appeal, BAA agreed to cease challenging the Competition Commission's ruling and to sell Stansted.

On 10 February 2010, Secretary of State [[John Denham (politician)|John Denham]], in an open letter, concluded that the inquiry could not reasonably start until after the general election. In addition, he commented that the planning application documents were nearly two years old and would require updating. Eventually, BAA realised the futility of pursuing its G2 application in the context of the new government policy and withdrew it on 24 May 2010.<ref name="withdraw2" />

==== Stop Stansted Expansion ====
The [[advocacy group]] Stop Stansted Expansion (SSE) was formed in 2002, as a working group of the North West Essex and East Herts Preservation Association, in response to the Government's consultation on expanding UK airports and, particularly, runway expansion plans for Stansted Airport subsequently defined in the Air Transport white paper in December 2003.<ref>[http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20100519093443/http:/www.dft.gov.uk/about/strategy/whitepapers/air/ (ARCHIVED CONTENT) The Future of Air Transport – White Paper and the Civil Aviation Bill]. Webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk. Retrieved 16 August 2013.</ref> In September 2012, as a result of pressure from the aviation industry, the government set up the Airports Commission, chaired by Sir Howard Davies, to consider what, if anything, needed to be done to maintain the UK's status as a global aviation hub. The commission concluded that an additional runway would be required for South East England and that it should be added to either Heathrow or Gatwick. Following the 2015 election, the commission made a final recommendation to expand Heathrow subject to certain environmental constraints.<ref>[https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/airports-commission Airports Commission] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130720003250/https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/airports-commission|date=20 July 2013}}. GOV.UK. Retrieved 16 August 2013.</ref>

=== Terminal ===

==== Satellite 4 ====
[[File:London Stansted Airport - geograph.org.uk - 6079852.jpg|thumb|Proposed Located of Satellite 4]]
Plans for Satellite 4 have never been realised.<ref name=":3" /> Located to the northeast of Satellite 3, Satellite 4 was approved for [[Planning permission in the United Kingdom|planning permission]] in 1999 as part of an expansion strategy to increase the airport's capacity from 8 to 15 million passengers per annum.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 Feb 2018 |title=STANSTED AIRPORT 25-35MPPA EXPANSION (GENERATION 1) |url=https://uttlesford.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s3518/25%20TO%2035MPPA%20monitoring%20v2.1.pdf |website=Uttlesford District Council}}</ref> A revised scheme in 2005 included a pier link for the proposed satellite, with construction planned for 2013-2015,<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 2008 |title=BAA FUNDING LIMITED Prospectus |url=https://www.heathrow.com/content/dam/heathrow/web/common/documents/company/investor/offering-related-documents/archived-documents/baa/2008-Base_prospectus.pdf |website=www.heathrow.com}}</ref> however plans did not proceed after the sale of [[British Airports Authority|BAA]] to [[Ferrovial]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Whitelaw |first=Jackie |date=2006-06-08 |title=Stansted expansion on shaky ground as Ferrovial buys BAA |url=https://www.newcivilengineer.com/archive/stansted-expansion-on-shaky-ground-as-ferrovial-buys-baa-2-08-06-2006/ |access-date=2024-10-18 |website=New Civil Engineer |language=en}}</ref> and construction never commenced.

In 2018, the site of Satellite 4 was instead built as remote stands.<ref name=":4" /> The current expansion plans for 2024 do not include Satellite 4, and instead focuses on other airfield and terminal improvements.<ref name=":5" />

==== Former arrivals terminal plan ====
In December 2016, London Stansted Airport unveiled plans for a new £130 million arrivals terminal aimed to handle increasing passenger numbers and relieve pressure on the existing single-terminal setup,<ref>{{Cite web |last=upload@defence-suppliers.com |date=2016-12-19 |title=London Stansted Airport unveils plans for new £130 million arrivals building to transform the passenger experience |url=https://www.airport-suppliers.com/london-stansted-airport-unveils-plans-new-130-million-arrivals-building-transform-passenger-experience/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=Airport Suppliers |language=en-GB}}</ref> which is the busiest of its kind in the UK.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Morris |first=Hugh |date=2016-12-16 |title=UK's busiest single-terminal airport set for £130m revamp |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/news/stansted-reveals-plans-for-new-terminal-building/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |work=The Telegraph |language=en-GB |issn=0307-1235}}</ref>

The new arrivals terminal was to be located adjacent to the existing terminal and [[Radisson Blu]] Hotel. It would feature a larger immigration and baggage reclaim area. This new facility would allow the existing terminal to be reconfigured exclusively for departures, expanding space for check-in, security, and the international departures lounge, and would make London Stansted the only airport in the UK with separate arrivals and departures terminals.<ref>{{Cite news |date=5 April 2017 |title=Stansted Airport announces new £130m arrivals terminal |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-39507329 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405203947/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-39507329 |archive-date=5 April 2017 |access-date=6 April 2017 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC English Regions |location=Cambridge |language=en-GB}}</ref>

Initial construction was due to start in 2018, taking three years to complete. However, the arrivals terminal was put on hold at the end of 2019, due to fluctuating travel demand and economic uncertainties.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Stansted Airport presses pause on £130m arrivals building - The Transport Network |url=https://www.transport-network.co.uk/Stansted-Airport-presses-pause-on-130m-arrivals-building/16338 |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=www.transport-network.co.uk}}</ref> In 2020, [[Uttlesford District Council]] refused planning permission for the expansion plan, but the [[Planning Inspectorate]] overturned this decision following a public inquiry in 2021.<ref name="BBC20222">{{cite news |title=Stansted Airport: Council criticised for rejecting expansion plan |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-62180461 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220815031234/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-62180461 |archive-date=15 August 2022 |access-date=4 October 2022 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC English Regions |location=Cambridge}}</ref> Despite the approval, further delays and changes to the airport's priorities led to the arrivals terminal being deferred.

In 2023, following a review of various proposals for increasing terminal capacity, Stansted Airport decided to cancel the arrivals terminal project, opting instead to focus on expanding the existing 1991 terminal building.<ref>https://assets.live.dxp.maginfrastructure.com/f/73114/x/6ebb71c0b2/manchester-airport-group-plc-base-prospectus-11_09_2023.pdf {{Bare URL PDF|date=August 2024}}</ref>

==== Terminal extension ====
[[File:Airside_at_Stansted_Airport_-_geograph.org.uk_-_6850504.jpg|thumb|The terminal will be extended by three bays to the rear, replacing the [[Stansted Airport Transit System|passenger transit system]].]]
In July 2023, [[Manchester Airports Group|MAG]] announced a new proposal for a reconfiguration and three-bay extension to the existing terminal building, which will increase its size by a third.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Billions for Stansted Airport and London Gateway announced |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn5z95ylxwno |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=www.bbc.com |language=en-GB}}</ref> This plan aims to create increased passenger amenities, with an expected cost of £600 million.<ref name=":2" /> The extension plan will increase the terminal's size by 16,500 square metres, and  is designed to accommodate a increase in passenger capacity from 35 million to 43 million annual passengers. On 1 November 2023, the government's Planning Inspectorate approved the expansion plan.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-01 |title=Stansted Airport expansion plans for bigger terminal approved |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-essex-67279365 |access-date=2024-10-15 |language=en-GB}}</ref>

The new terminal design will incorporate a larger [[Departure Lounge|departure lounge]], an enlarged [[Airport security|security hall]], and new amenities, including additional shops, bars, and restaurants. The baggage reclaim area will also be feature new carousels and increased baggage handling capacity.<ref>{{cite web |title=Terminal Extension |url=https://www.stanstedairport.com/about-us/terminal-development/}}</ref> The redevelopment will include the installation new check-in desks, and [[CT scan#Aviation security|next-generation]] security scanners. Satellite 2 (gates 20-39) is also set to receive an overhaul, with upgraded floor and gate area seating. The existing gate areas will also be reconfigured to model conventional gate-rooms as seen in other airports, with the aim to create more space for passengers when pre-boarding their aircraft <ref>{{Cite web |title=London Stansted unveils £1.1bn investment programme as it embarks on "exciting new chapter" |url=https://mediacentre.stanstedairport.com/london-stansted-unveils-11bn-investment-programme-as-it-embarks-on-exciting-new-chapter/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=London Stansted unveils £1.1bn investment programme as it embarks on "exciting new chapter" |language=en}}</ref>

As part of the redevelopment project, the existing [[Stansted Airport Transit System|passenger transit system]] will be decommissioned and replaced with new walkways that will connect the terminal to the [[Satellite terminal|satellite buildings]].<ref name="constructionenquirer-20232">{{cite news |last1=Morby |first1=Aaron |title=Plan in for Stansted airport terminal extension |url=https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/09/27/plan-in-for-stansted-airport-terminal-extension/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212154837/https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/09/27/plan-in-for-stansted-airport-terminal-extension/ |archive-date=12 December 2023 |access-date=12 December 2023 |work=Construction Enquirer}}</ref>  Additionally, the [[Border control|immigration hall]] will be relocated to a new area downstairs within the terminal.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=London Stansted unveils £1.1bn investment programme as it embarks on "exciting new chapter" |url=https://mediacentre.stanstedairport.com/london-stansted-unveils-11bn-investment-programme-as-it-embarks-on-exciting-new-chapter/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=London Stansted unveils £1.1bn investment programme as it embarks on "exciting new chapter" |language=en}}</ref>  Also included in the programme is the installation of a 14.3-megawatt on-site solar farm.<ref>{{Cite web |title=London Stansted Airport Eyeing 2025 Start On Terminal Extension Construction {{!}} Aviation Week Network |url=https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airports-networks/london-stansted-airport-eyeing-2025-start-terminal-extension |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=aviationweek.com}}</ref>

Construction of the extension is planned to begin in 2025 and is expected to last two to three years.<ref>{{Cite web |title=London Stansted Airport Eyeing 2025 Start On Terminal Extension Construction {{!}} Aviation Week Network |url=https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airports-networks/london-stansted-airport-eyeing-2025-start-terminal-extension |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=aviationweek.com}}</ref>

==== Proposed artwork ====
As part of the terminal's initial development, in 1988 [[Norman Foster]] and British architectural artist [[Brian Clarke]] made several proposals for an integral artwork for the terminal building. The principal proposal would have seen the east and west elevations of the terminal clad in two sequences of traditionally mouth-blown, leaded [[stained glass]],<ref name="Architectural Artist">{{Cite book |last=Powell |first=Kenneth |title=Brian Clarke: Architectural Artist |publisher=Academy Group Ltd |year=1994 |isbn=9781854903433 |editor-last=Hodges |editor-first=Nicola |series=Academy Editions: art and design monographs |location=Great Britain |page=13 |chapter=Architectural Artist}}</ref> along the full {{convert|162|metre|adj=on}} length of the building. However, for technical and security reasons, the artwork was not executed. In 1991, the British Airports Authority commissioned a second, smaller stained glass project from Clarke for Stansted Airport in place of the 1988 proposal. The artist designed two stained glass [[frieze]]s and a {{convert|6|m|adj=on}} high tower of stained glass<ref>{{cite book |author=Powell, Kenneth |title=Stansted: Norman Foster and the Architecture of Flight |publisher=Fourth Estate/The University of Michigan |year=1992 |isbn=9781872180991 |pages=58–59; 85}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=Glancey, Jonathan |title=On Foster... Foster On |publisher=Prestel |year=2000 |isbn=3-7913-2405-5 |page=257}}</ref> for a circulation area in the centre of the terminal which, in their composition, echoed elements of Foster's structure; by 1994 the tower had been removed to 'allow greater flow of traffic through the space',<ref name="Architectural Artist" /> and later the friezes were likewise removed.

==Airlines and destinations==

===Passenger===
The following airlines operate regular scheduled flights to and from Stansted Airport:<ref>[https://www.stanstedairport.com/flight-information/ stanstedairport.com – Flight Information] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401220734/https://www.stanstedairport.com/flight-information/ |date=1 April 2020}} retrieved 27 August 2020.</ref>

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| [[AJet]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240329-vfns24|title=AJet NS24 Additional Flight Number Changes|website=Aeroroutes}}</ref> | [[Ankara Esenboğa Airport|Ankara]], [[Sabiha Gökçen International Airport|Istanbul–Sabiha Gökçen]] <br /> '''Seasonal:''' [[Antalya Airport|Antalya]]
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| [[Aurigny]] | [[Guernsey Airport|Guernsey]]<ref>https://engine.aurigny.com/prod/VARS/public/b/flightCal.aspx {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2024}}</ref>
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| [[British Airways]] | [[Amsterdam Airport Schiphol|Amsterdam]]{{ref|1|1}} (begins 15 December 2024),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://luchtvaartnieuws.nl/nieuws/categorie/2/airlines/british-airways-start-vluchten-van-londen-stansted-naar-schiphol|title=British Airways start vluchten van Londen Stansted naar Schiphol|trans-title=British Airways starts flights from London Stansted to Schiphol|language=Dutch|website=Luchtvaartnieuws|date=9 July 2024|access-date=9 July 2024}}</ref> [[Florence Airport|Florence]]<ref name="routes01">{{cite web | url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240415-ukns24 | title=UK NS24 Network Additions – 14APR24 }}</ref> <br />'''Seasonal:''' [[Geneva Airport|Geneva]] (begins 14 December 2024),<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240718-banw24stngva | title=BA CityFlyer Adds London Stansted – Geneva from mid-Dec 2024 }}</ref> [[Ibiza Airport|Ibiza]],<ref name="routes01"/> [[Nice Côte d'Azur Airport|Nice]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/231212-bacjns24stn|publisher=AeroRoutes|title=BA CityFlyer NS24 London Stansted Operations|access-date=13 December 2023}}</ref> <br /> '''Seasonal charter:''' [[Calvi – Sainte-Catherine Airport|Calvi]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ttgmedia.com/news/corsica-specialist-secures-ba-flight-charter-for-summer-2023-38436|title=CORSICA SPECIALIST SECURES BA FLIGHT CHARTER FOR SUMMER 2023|access-date=4 July 2023}}</ref>
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| {{nowrap|[[Corendon Airlines]]}} | '''Seasonal:''' [[Antalya Airport|Antalya]], [[İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport|Izmir]] (begins 15 May 2025)<ref>{{cite web | url=https://planeopedia.com/corendon-uk | title=Corendon Airlines Launches New Izmir-UK Routes {{pipe}} Planeopedia }}</ref>
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| [[easyJet]] | [[Amsterdam Airport Schiphol|Amsterdam]], [[Belfast International Airport|Belfast–International]], [[Edinburgh Airport|Edinburgh]], [[Glasgow Airport|Glasgow]]<br /> '''Seasonal:''' [[Geneva Airport|Geneva]],<ref name="agefi.com">{{Cite web|url=https://agefi.com/actualites/entreprises/easyjet-etend-son-offre-vers-londres-et-le-maroc?share=846|title=EasyJet étend son offre vers Londres et le Maroc|website=agefi.com|date=29 February 2024 }}</ref> [[Zurich Airport|Zurich]]<ref name="agefi.com" />
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| [[Emirates (airline)|Emirates]] | [[Dubai International Airport|Dubai–International]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://aeroroutes.com/eng/220730-ekaug22stn|publisher=AeroRoutes|title=Emirates restores London Stansted frequencies in August 2022|accessdate=July 30, 2022|archive-date=30 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220730190644/https://aeroroutes.com/eng/220730-ekaug22stn|url-status=live}}</ref>
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| [[FlyOne]] | [[Chișinău International Airport|Chișinău]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230703-5f2h23lon|title=Fly One 2H23 London Service Additions|website=Aeroroutes.com|accessdate=2 November 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://flyone.eu/en/ | title=FLYONE {{pipe}} Cheap flights from Chisinau and Yerevan }}</ref>
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| [[HiSky]] | [[Chișinău International Airport|Chișinău]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230803-h4h7sep23kiv|title=HiSky late-Sep 2023 Chisinau Network Expansion|website=Aeroroutes.com|accessdate=2 November 2024}}</ref> [[Oradea International Airport|Oradea]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://boardingpass.ro/hisky-zboruri-din-oradea-spre-bucuresti-si-londra-din-octombrie-2024/ | title=HiSky: Zboruri din Oradea spre București și Londra din octombrie 2024 | date=13 June 2024 }}</ref>
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| [[Jet2.com]]<ref name=Jet2>{{cite web|url=https://www.jet2.com/timetable|title=Flight Timetable|website=jet2.com|language=en-GB|access-date=3 May 2018|archive-date=25 September 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100925060955/https://www.jet2.com/timetable|url-status=live}}</ref> | [[Agadir–Al Massira Airport|Agadir]],<ref name="travelweekly.co.uk">{{cite web | url=https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/jet2-introduces-morocco-flights-and-holidays | title=Jet2 introduces Morocco flights and holidays }}</ref> [[Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport|Alicante]], [[Antalya Airport|Antalya]], [[Faro Airport|Faro]], [[Fuerteventura Airport|Fuerteventura]], [[Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport|Funchal]], [[Gran Canaria Airport|Gran Canaria]], [[Lanzarote Airport|Lanzarote]], [[Málaga Airport|Málaga]], [[Marrakesh Menara Airport|Marrakesh]],<ref name="travelweekly.co.uk"/> [[Palma de Mallorca Airport|Palma de Mallorca]], [[Paphos International Airport|Paphos]], [[Rome Fiumicino Airport|Rome–Fiumicino]],<ref name="auto1"/> [[Tenerife South Airport|Tenerife–South]] <br /> '''Seasonal:''' [[Athens International Airport|Athens]],<ref name="auto1">{{cite web | url=https://www.ttgmedia.com/news/jet2-adds-five-new-routes-to-summer-2023-programme-34436 | title=Jet2 adds five new routes to summer 2023 programme | access-date=25 May 2022 | archive-date=25 May 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220525101303/https://www.ttgmedia.com/news/jet2-adds-five-new-routes-to-summer-2023-programme-34436 | url-status=live}}</ref> [[Bergen Airport, Flesland|Bergen]] (begins 24 April 2025, ends 5 May 2025),<ref name=Jet2024>{{cite web|url=https://www.jet2.com/timetable|title=Flight Timetable|website=jet2.com}}</ref>{{better source needed|independent source needed|date=May 2024}} [[Milas–Bodrum Airport|Bodrum]], [[Burgas Airport|Burgas]],<ref name="auto6">{{Cite web | url = https://www.jet2.com/en/next-summer#flights | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221016050020/https://www.jet2.com/en/next-summer | archive-date = 16 October 2022 | title = Flights for Summer 2024 | website = jet2.com}}{{better source needed|independent source needed|date=May 2024}}</ref> [[Catania Airport|Catania]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jet2.com/en/flights/italy/sicily|title=Sicily|website=[[Jet2.com]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517220322/https://www.jet2.com/en/flights/italy/sicily |archive-date=17 May 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref>{{better source needed|independent source needed|date=May 2024}} [[Chambéry Airport|Chambéry]], [[Chania International Airport|Chania]], [[Corfu International Airport|Corfu]], [[Dalaman Airport|Dalaman]], [[Dubrovnik Airport|Dubrovnik]], [[Geneva Airport|Geneva]], [[Girona-Costa Brava Airport|Girona]], [[Grenoble–Isère Airport|Grenoble]], [[Heraklion International Airport|Heraklion]], [[Ibiza Airport|Ibiza]], [[İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport|Izmir]], [[Jerez Airport|Jerez de la Frontera]] (begins 1 May 2026),<ref>https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/jet2-and-jet2holidays-tease-further-growth-as-expanded-summer-2026-programme-released</ref> [[Kalamata International Airport|Kalamata]],<ref name=LSS20>{{cite web|last=Liu|first=Jim|url=https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/288957/jet2com-s20-network-expansion-as-of-19jan20/|title=Jet2.com S20 Network expansion as of 19JAN20|website=Routesonline|date=22 January 2020|access-date=22 January 2020|archive-date=3 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303203026/https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/288957/jet2com-s20-network-expansion-as-of-19jan20/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Kefalonia International Airport|Kefalonia]], [[Kos International Airport|Kos]], [[Kraków John Paul II International Airport|Kraków]] (begins 27 November 2025),<ref name="Jet2 New Routes">{{cite web|url=https://www.jet2.com/en/flights/new-routes|title=New Routes|website=[[Jet2.com]]}}</ref>{{better|independent source needed|date=August 2024}} [[Larnaca International Airport|Larnaca]], [[Malta International Airport|Malta]], [[Menorca Airport|Menorca]], [[Mytilene International Airport|Mytilene]],<ref name=LSS20/> [[Naples International Airport|Naples]], [[Nice Côte d'Azur Airport|Nice]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/jet2holidays-puts-expanded-summer-2024-city-breaks-programme-on-sale | title=Jet2holidays puts expanded summer 2024 city breaks programme on sale}}</ref> [[Olbia Airport|Olbia]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jet2.com/en/flights/italy/sardinia|title=Sardinia|website=[[Jet2.com]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220408012023/https://www.jet2.com/en/flights/italy/sardinia |archive-date=8 April 2022|url-status=dead}}</ref>{{better source needed|independent source needed|date=May 2024}} [[Václav Havel Airport|Prague]], [[Aktion National Airport|Preveza/Lefkada]],<ref name=LSS20/> [[Pula Airport|Pula]] (begins 3 May 2025),<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ttgmedia.com/news/jet2holidays-puts-four-new-destinations-across-greece-portugal-and-croatia-on-sale-43540 | title=Jet2holidays puts four new destinations across Greece, Portugal and Croatia on sale }}</ref> [[Reus Airport|Reus]], [[Keflavík International Airport|Reykjavík–Keflavík]],<ref name="Jet2s20">{{cite web|url=https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/18886979.jet-2-announced-new-flights-trips-iceland-stansted-airport/|title=This is when you'll be able to jet off for "once in a lifetime" Iceland trip from Stansted|website=Gazette|date=21 November 2020 |access-date=16 May 2021|archive-date=16 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516131229/https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/18886979.jet-2-announced-new-flights-trips-iceland-stansted-airport/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Rhodes International Airport|Rhodes]], [[Salzburg Airport|Salzburg]], [[Santorini International Airport|Santorini]],<ref name="Jet2S20">{{cite news|title=Jet2.com S20 network expansion as of 26MAR19|url=https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/283569/jet2com-s20-network-expansion-as-of-26mar19/|date=27 March 2019|work=routesonline.com|access-date=27 March 2019|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327075010/https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/283569/jet2com-s20-network-expansion-as-of-26mar19/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Skiathos International Airport|Skiathos]], [[Split Airport|Split]], [[Thessaloniki Airport|Thessaloniki]], [[Tivat Airport|Tivat]],<ref name="Jet2 New Routes"/>{{better source needed|independent source needed|date=May 2024}} [[Verona Villafranca Airport|Verona]], [[Vienna Airport|Vienna]], [[Zakynthos International Airport|Zakynthos]]
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| {{nowrap|[[Pegasus Airlines]]}} | [[Ankara Esenboğa Airport|Ankara]], [[Antalya Airport|Antalya]], [[Sabiha Gökçen International Airport|Istanbul–Sabiha Gökçen]], [[İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport|İzmir]] <br /> '''Seasonal:''' [[Dalaman Airport|Dalaman]]
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| [[Play (airline)|Play]]<ref name="Play Route Map">{{cite web|url=https://flyplay.com/en/routemap|title=Route Map|website=flyplay.com|access-date=20 July 2021|archive-date=20 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720003332/https://flyplay.com/en/routemap|url-status=live}}</ref> | [[Keflavík International Airport|Reykjavík–Keflavík]]<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Liu|first1=Jim|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230223-ogstn|title=PLAY 1Q24 London Aircraft Changes|website=Aeroroutes.com|accessdate=3 November 2024|language=en-CA}}</ref>
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| [[Royal Jordanian]] | [[Queen Alia International Airport|Amman–Queen Alia]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/royal-jordanian-confirms-manchester-and-stansted-routes | title=Royal Jordanian confirms Manchester and Stansted routes }}</ref>
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| [[Ryanair]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230330-frns23|title=Ryanair NS23 Network Additions Summary – 26MAR23|website=Aeroroutes}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230330-rkns23|title=Ryanair Moves Additional Routes to Ryanair UK in NS23|website=Aeroroutes}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230207-fr320|title=Ryanair NS23 A320 Network Additions – 05FEB23|website=Aeroroutes}}</ref> | [[Aalborg Airport|Aalborg]], [[Aarhus Airport|Aarhus]], [[Agadir–Al Massira Airport|Agadir]],<ref name="routes03">https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/231218-frrkns24ma</ref> [[Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport|Alicante]], [[Marche Airport|Ancona]], [[Asturias Airport|Asturias]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.lne.es/asturias/2022/06/22/asturias-tendra-rutas-internacionales-previstas-67545010.html | title=Asturias tendrá dos rutas internacionales más de las previstas (Y los billetes baratos ya están a la venta) | date=22 June 2022 | access-date=22 June 2022 | archive-date=22 June 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622113333/https://www.lne.es/asturias/2022/06/22/asturias-tendra-rutas-internacionales-previstas-67545010.html | url-status=live}}</ref> [[Athens International Airport|Athens]], [[Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport|Barcelona]], [[Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport|Bari]], [[EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg|Basel/Mulhouse]],<ref name="routes04">https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/231030-uknw23</ref> [[Belfast International Airport|Belfast–International]], [[Milan Bergamo Airport|Bergamo]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230516-frns23it|title=Ryanair May – Oct 2023 Italy Frequency Variations – 14MAY23|website=Aeroroutes}}</ref> [[Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport|Bergerac]], [[Berlin Brandenburg Airport|Berlin]], [[Biarritz – Anglet – Bayonne Airport|Biarritz]], [[Billund Airport|Billund]], [[Milas–Bodrum Airport|Bodrum]] (begins 1 December 2024),<ref>https://centreforaviation.com/news/ryanair-to-commence-two-turkiye-services-from-london-stansted-in-dec-2024-1285602</ref> [[Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport|Bologna]], [[Bratislava Airport|Bratislava]], [[Bremen Airport|Bremen]], [[Brindisi Airport|Brindisi]], [[Brno-Tuřany Airport|Brno]], [[Henri Coandă International Airport|Bucharest–Otopeni]], [[Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport|Budapest]], [[Bydgoszcz Ignacy Jan Paderewski Airport|Bydgoszcz]], [[Cagliari Elmas Airport|Cagliari]], [[Carcassonne Airport|Carcassonne]], [[Castellón–Costa Azahar Airport|Castellón]], [[Catania Airport|Catania]],<ref name="Ryanair website">{{cite web |url=https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en |title=Ryanair website |website=Ryanair.com |access-date=11 August 2018 |archive-date=26 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826194431/https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="routes02">https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/231218-rkns247m8</ref> [[Cluj International Airport|Cluj-Napoca]], [[Cologne Bonn Airport|Cologne/Bonn]], [[Copenhagen Airport|Copenhagen]], [[Cork Airport|Cork]], [[Dalaman Airport|Dalaman]] (begins 2 December 2024),<ref>https://centreforaviation.com/news/ryanair-to-commence-two-turkiye-services-from-london-stansted-in-dec-2024-1285602</ref> [[Dortmund Airport|Dortmund]] (ends 29 March 2025), [[Dublin Airport|Dublin]], [[Dubrovnik Airport|Dubrovnik]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://gradtrebinje.com/ekskluzivno-ryanair-ce-dubrovnik-povezati-sa-17-odredista-prema-dublinu-becu-i-londonu-ce-letjeti-i-zimi/ | title=EKSKLUZIVNO! Ryanair će Dubrovnik povezati sa 17 odredišta, prema Dublinu, Beču i Londonu će letjeti i zimi | date=28 November 2023 }}</ref> [[Edinburgh Airport|Edinburgh]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-expands-stansted-schedule-with-edinburgh-route | title=Ryanair expands Stansted schedule with Edinburgh route | access-date=30 September 2022 | archive-date=30 September 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220930112901/https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-expands-stansted-schedule-with-edinburgh-route | url-status=live}}</ref> [[Eindhoven Airport|Eindhoven]], [[Essaouira-Mogador Airport|Essaouira]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://centreforaviation.com/news/ryanair-launches-two-new-services-to-essaouira-950656 |title=News for Airlines, Airports and the Aviation Industry {{pipe}} CAPA |publisher=Centreforaviation.com |date=2019-10-31 |accessdate=2022-03-16 |archive-date=1 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211001180519/https://centreforaviation.com/news/ryanair-launches-two-new-services-to-essaouira-950656 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Gago Coutinho Airport|Faro]], [[Fès–Saïs Airport|Fez]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://centreforaviation.com/analysis/reports/ryanairs-eddie-wilson--youve-got-to-give-people-confidence-568626 |title=Ryanair's Eddie Wilson: " You've got to give people confidence" {{pipe}} CAPA |publisher=Centreforaviation.com |date= |accessdate=2022-03-16 |archive-date=1 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601165705/https://centreforaviation.com/analysis/reports/ryanairs-eddie-wilson--youve-got-to-give-people-confidence-568626 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Fuerteventura Airport|Fuerteventura]], [[Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport|Funchal]],<ref name="travelweekly1">{{cite web |last=Mayling |first=Samantha |url=https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-unveils-24-new-routes-for-summer-2022 |title=Ryanair unveils 24 new routes for summer 2022 |publisher=Travel Weekly |date=2021-11-23 |accessdate=2022-03-16 |archive-date=23 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211123131356/https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-unveils-24-new-routes-for-summer-2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport|Gdańsk]], [[Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport|Genoa]], [[Girona-Costa Brava Airport|Girona]],<ref name="routes02"/> [[Göteborg Landvetter Airport|Gothenburg]], [[Gran Canaria Airport|Gran Canaria]], [[Frankfurt–Hahn Airport|Hahn]],<ref>{{cite web |author=Mark Caswell |url=https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2022/01/10/ryanair-to-close-frankfurt-airport-base/ |title=Ryanair to close Frankfurt airport base – Business Traveller |publisher=Businesstraveller.com |date=2022-01-10 |accessdate=2022-03-16 |archive-date=20 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120121923/https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2022/01/10/ryanair-to-close-frankfurt-airport-base/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Hamburg Airport|Hamburg]], [[Helsinki Airport|Helsinki]],<ref name="routes02"/> [[Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport|Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden]], [[Katowice Airport|Katowice]], [[Kaunas Airport|Kaunas]], [[Kerry Airport|Kerry]], [[Klagenfurt Airport|Klagenfurt]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/221212-frnw22|title=Ryanair NW22 Network Additions Summary – 09DEC22|website=Aeroroutes}}</ref> [[Ireland West Airport|Knock]], [[Košice International Airport|Košice]], [[Kraków John Paul II International Airport|Kraków]], [[Lamezia Terme International Airport|Lamezia Terme]], [[Lanzarote Airport|Lanzarote]], [[La Rochelle – Île de Ré Airport|La Rochelle]], [[Leipzig/Halle Airport|Leipzig/Halle]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.leipziginfo.de/aktuelles/artikel/neu-ab-flughafen-leipzig-halle-mit-ryanair-direkt-und-guenstig-nach-london-und-dublin/ | title=Neu ab Flughafen Leipzig/Halle: Mit Ryanair direkt und günstig nach London und Dublin | access-date=15 June 2022 | archive-date=17 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717130845/https://www.leipziginfo.de/aktuelles/artikel/neu-ab-flughafen-leipzig-halle-mit-ryanair-direkt-und-guenstig-nach-london-und-dublin/ | url-status=live}}</ref>{{bsn|date=November 2024}}<!-- WILL RYANAIR FLY BETWEEN LEIPZIG/HALLE AND LONDON AFTER 29 MARCH 2025 ? -->, [[Limoges – Bellegarde Airport|Limoges]], [[Linz Airport|Linz]],<ref>https://ooe.orf.at/stories/3258084/ {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2024}}</ref> [[Humberto Delgado Airport|Lisbon]], [[Łódź Władysław Reymont Airport|Łódź]], [[Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées Airport|Lourdes]], [[Luxembourg Airport|Luxembourg]], [[Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport|Madrid]], [[Málaga Airport|Málaga]], [[Malta International Airport|Malta]], [[Marrakesh Menara Airport|Marrakesh]],<ref name="routes03"/> [[Marseille Provence Airport|Marseille]], [[Memmingen Airport|Memmingen]], [[Milan Malpensa Airport|Milan–Malpensa]], [[Región de Murcia International Airport|Murcia]], [[Nantes Airport|Nantes]], [[Naples International Airport|Naples]], [[Newquay Airport|Newquay]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://centreforaviation.com/news/ryanair-adds-london-stansted-cornwall-service-to-winter-202324-schedule-1235932 | title=News for Airlines, Airports and the Aviation Industry {{pipe}} CAPA }}</ref> [[Nice Côte d'Azur Airport|Nice]],<ref name="ryanair1">{{cite web | url=https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en/cheap-flight-destinations | title=Ryanair route map {{pipe}} Our European destinations | access-date=23 December 2021 | archive-date=28 January 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170128113037/https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en/cheap-flight-destinations | url-status=live}}</ref> [[Nuremberg Airport|Nuremberg]],<ref name="ryanair1"/> [[Olsztyn-Mazury Airport|Olsztyn-Mazury]], [[Oslo Airport, Gardermoen|Oslo]], [[Leoš Janáček Airport Ostrava|Ostrava]], [[Ouarzazate Airport|Ouarzazate]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://centreforaviation.com/news/ryanair-to-commence-london-stansted-ouarzazate-service-in-mar-2023-1186580 | title=News for Airlines, Airports and the Aviation Industry {{pipe}} CAPA}}</ref> [[Palanga International Airport|Palanga]], [[Falcone–Borsellino Airport|Palermo]], [[Palma de Mallorca Airport|Palma de Mallorca]], [[Paphos International Airport|Paphos]], [[Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi – Umbria International Airport|Perugia]], [[Abruzzo Airport|Pescara]], [[Pisa International Airport|Pisa]], [[Plovdiv Airport|Plovdiv]], [[Podgorica Airport|Podgorica]], [[Poitiers–Biard Airport|Poitiers]], [[Poprad–Tatry Airport|Poprad–Tatry]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://centreforaviation.com/news/ryanair-to-launch-london-stansted-poprad-service-1218851|title=Ryanair to launch London Stansted-Poprad service|website=CAPA}}</ref> [[Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport|Porto]], [[Poznań–Ławica Airport|Poznań]], [[Václav Havel Airport Prague|Prague]], [[Rabat–Salé Airport|Rabat]], [[Reggio Calabria Airport|Reggio Calabria]],<ref>https://www.aeroporticalabria.com/voli-reggio-calabria/aeroporto-reggio-calabria-ryanair-volera-su-londra-stansted-parigi-beauvais-francoforte-hahn-bruxelles-charleroi-dublino-e-katowice-per-linverno-2024-2025/ {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2024}}</ref> [[Riga International Airport|Riga]], [[Rome Ciampino Airport|Rome–Ciampino]], [[Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport|Rzeszów]], [[Salzburg Airport|Salzburg]], [[Sandefjord Airport, Torp|Sandefjord]], [[Santander Airport|Santander]], [[Santiago–Rosalía de Castro Airport|Santiago de Compostela]], [[Sarajevo Airport|Sarajevo]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.exyuaviation.com/2023/11/ryanair-unveils-sarajevo-routes.html | title=Ryanair unveils Sarajevo routes | date=28 November 2023 }}</ref> [[Seville Airport|Seville]], [[Shannon Airport|Shannon]], [[Sofia Airport|Sofia]], [[Stockholm Arlanda Airport|Stockholm–Arlanda]], [[Stockholm Västerås Airport|Stockholm–Västerås]], [[Solidarity Szczecin–Goleniów Airport|Szczecin]], [[Tallinn Airport|Tallinn]], [[Tangier Airport|Tangier]],<ref name="Ryanair website"/> [[Tenerife South Airport|Tenerife–South]], [[Thessaloniki Airport|Thessaloniki]], [[Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza|Tirana]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://italiavola.com/2023/06/08/ryanair-sbarca-in-albania-attacco-frontale-a-wizz-air/ | title=Ryanair sbarca in Albania. Attacco frontale a Wizz Air | date=8 June 2023 }}</ref> [[Toulouse–Blagnac Airport|Toulouse]], [[Tours Val de Loire Airport|Tours]], [[Trapani Airport|Trapani]], [[Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport|Trieste]], [[Turin Airport|Turin]], [[Valencia Airport|Valencia]], [[Venice Marco Polo Airport|Venice]], [[Verona Villafranca Airport|Verona]], [[Vienna Airport|Vienna]], [[Vigo–Peinador Airport|Vigo]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.farodevigo.es/gran-vigo/2023/02/21/billetes-vuelo-vigo-londres-ryanair-82190937.html | title=Ryanair activa el vuelo entre Vigo y Londres | date=21 February 2023}}</ref> [[Vilnius Airport|Vilnius]], [[Warsaw Modlin Airport|Warsaw–Modlin]], [[Wrocław Airport|Wrocław]], [[Zagreb Airport|Zagreb]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.croatianaviation.com/post/12-routes-2-aircraft-and-36-weekly-flights-ryanair-to-open-zagreb-base |title=12 routes, 2 aircraft and 36 weekly flights: Ryanair to open Zagreb base! |date=30 March 2021 |publisher=CroatianAviation |access-date=2021-03-30 |archive-date=19 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419143750/https://www.croatianaviation.com/post/12-routes-2-aircraft-and-36-weekly-flights-ryanair-to-open-zagreb-base |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Zaragoza Airport|Zaragoza]] <br /> '''Seasonal:''' [[Alghero–Fertilia Airport|Alghero]], [[Almería Airport|Almería]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en | title=Ryanair }}</ref> [[Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport|Béziers]], [[Brive-Souillac Airport|Brive]], [[Chania International Airport|Chania]], [[Corfu International Airport|Corfu]], [[Alpes–Isère Airport|Grenoble]], [[Ibiza Airport|Ibiza]], [[Jerez Airport|Jerez de la Frontera]], [[Kalamata International Airport|Kalamata]], [[Kefalonia International Airport|Kefalonia]], [[Kos International Airport|Kos]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en/cheap-flight-destinations | title=Ryanair route map {{pipe}} Our European destinations}}</ref> [[Menorca Airport|Menorca]], [[Nîmes–Alès–Camargue–Cévennes Airport|Nimes]], [[Olbia Airport|Olbia]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ansa.it/sardegna/notizie/2024/01/31/ryanair-per-la-prima-volta-a-olbia-10-collegamenti-estivi_0afee53b-2088-44e4-8138-01454c002e67.html | title=Ryanair per la prima volta a Olbia, 10 collegamenti estivi - Notizie - Ansa.it | date=31 January 2024 }}</ref> [[Örebro Airport|Örebro]],<ref>https://www.svt.se/nyheter/lokalt/orebro/osakert-om-flyget-till-london-fran-orebro-flygplats-blir-kvar {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2024}}</ref> [[Osijek Airport|Osijek]], [[Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport|Perpignan]], [[João Paulo II Airport|Ponta Delgada]], [[Aktion National Airport|Preveza/Lefkada]], [[Pula Airport|Pula]], [[Reus Airport|Reus]], [[Rijeka Airport|Rijeka]], [[Federico Fellini International Airport|Rimini]],<ref name="ryanair1"/> [[Rhodes International Airport|Rhodes]], [[Rodez–Aveyron Airport|Rodez]], [[Rovaniemi Airport|Rovaniemi]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Davies |first=Phil |url=https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-puts-lapland-flights-on-sale |title=Ryanair puts Lapland flights on sale |publisher=Travel Weekly |date=2022-03-31 |accessdate=2022-05-07 |archive-date=31 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331102158/https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-puts-lapland-flights-on-sale |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport|Salerno]],<ref>https://www.ilmattino.it/salerno/aeroporto_salerno_costa_d_amalfi_ryanair_tre_nuove_destinazioni-8187387.html {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2024}}</ref> [[Santorini International Airport|Santorini]],<ref name="auto2">{{cite news|url=http://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-raises-uk-summer-capacity-to-greece|title=Ryanair raises UK summer capacity to Greece|last=Davies|first=Phil|date=11 March 2021|magazine=Travel Weekly|location=London|access-date=23 April 2021|archive-date=23 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210423073452/http://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/ryanair-raises-uk-summer-capacity-to-greece|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Zadar Airport|Zadar]], [[Zakynthos International Airport|Zakynthos]]
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| [[SunExpress]] | [[Antalya Airport|Antalya]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://centreforaviation.com/news/sunexpress-to-launch-three-uk-services-1208753 | title=News for Airlines, Airports and the Aviation Industry {{pipe}} CAPA }}</ref> [[İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport|Izmir]]<ref name="routes04"/> <br /> '''Seasonal:''' [[Çukurova International Airport|Adana/Mersin]],<ref name="SunExpress NS24 Network Expansion">{{cite web | url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230925-xqns24 | title=SunExpress NS24 Network Expansion| date=25 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.tgrthaber.com/aktuel/10-agustosta-adana-sakirpasa-havalimani-kapatiliyor-ucuslar-yeni-havalimanina-aktarilacak-2964974 | title=10 Ağustos'ta Adana Şakirpaşa Havalimanı kapatılıyor! Uçuşlar yeni havalimanına aktarılacak | date=3 August 2024 }}</ref> [[Dalaman Airport|Dalaman]] (begins 5 April 2025),<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240808-xqns25 | title=SunExpress NS25 Network Additions Summary – 04AUG24 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sunexpress.com/en/inspiration/travel-guide/countries/united-kingdom/|title = Book flights to the UK the easy way with SunExpress}}</ref> [[Gaziantep Oğuzeli Airport|Gaziantep]],<ref name="SunExpress NS24 Network Expansion"/> [[Erkilet International Airport|Kayseri]] (begins 1 July 2025)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/241029-xqns25|title=SunExpress NS25 Network Additions – 27OCT24|website=Aeroroutes|publisher=Aeroroutes|accessdate=30 October 2024}}</ref>
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| [[Transavia]] | [[Rotterdam The Hague Airport|Rotterdam/The Hague]] (resumes 3 April 2025)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://luchtvaartnieuws.nl/nieuws/categorie/3/airports/transavia-start-nieuwe-lijndiensten-vanaf-rotterdam-airport-en-concurreert-met-eurostar|title=Transavia start nieuwe lijndiensten vanaf Rotterdam Airport en concurreert met Eurostar|trans-title=Transavia starts new services from Rotterdam Airport and competes with Eurostar|language=Dutch|website=Luchtvaartnieuws|date=9 October 2024|access-date=9 October 2024}}</ref>
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| [[TUI Airways]]<ref name="TUI.uk">{{cite web|url=https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/timetable|title=Flight Timetable|website=tui.co.uk|language=en-GB}}</ref> | [[Gran Canaria Airport|Gran Canaria]], [[Sharm El Sheikh International Airport|Sharm El Sheikh]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ukaviation.news/tui-targets-a-regional-return-to-sharm-el-sheikh-in-2021/|title=TUI targets a regional return to Sharm El Sheikh in 2021|website=ukaviation.news|date=22 October 2020|access-date=16 February 2021|archive-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114100815/https://ukaviation.news/tui-targets-a-regional-return-to-sharm-el-sheikh-in-2021/|url-status=live}}</ref> <br /> '''Seasonal:''' [[Chambéry Airport|Chambéry]], [[Corfu International Airport|Corfu]], [[Dalaman Airport|Dalaman]], [[Enfidha–Hammamet International Airport|Enfidha]] (begins 2 May 2025),<ref>{{cite web | url=https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/air/tui-adds-300000-seats-to-summer-2025-programme | title=Tui adds 345,000 seats to summer 2025 programme }}</ref> [[Heraklion International Airport|Heraklion]], [[Ibiza Airport|Ibiza]], [[Innsbruck Airport|Innsbruck]], [[Kefalonia International Airport|Kefalonia]], [[Menorca Airport|Menorca]], [[Palma de Mallorca Airport|Palma de Mallorca]], [[Paphos International Airport|Paphos]], [[Rhodes International Airport|Rhodes]], [[Salzburg Airport|Salzburg]], [[Tenerife South Airport|Tenerife–South]], [[Turin Airport|Turin]], [[Verona Villafranca Airport|Verona]] (begins 21 December 2024),<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/timetable | title=Flights with TUI {{pipe}} Thomson now TUI Airways }}</ref> [[Zakynthos International Airport|Zakynthos]]
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}}

;Notes
<small>{{note|1|1}} [[British Airways]] flights to [[Amsterdam Airport Schiphol|Amsterdam]] operate as a one-way service. The return flights are destined for [[London City Airport|London-City]]. The service is a result of limited weekend opening times of London-City to decrease nuisance for nearby residents.</small>

===Cargo===
<!-- WHEN ADDING A NEW ROUTE, OR ADDING AN END DATE FOR A ROUTE PLEASE ADD A REFERENCE, ALSO ADD THE ROUTE AND LINK ON THE CORRESPONDING AIRPORTS ARTICLE AND THE AIRLINES ARTICLE IF IT IS A NEW DESTINATION, ANYTHING WHICH IS NOT REFERENCED WILL BE REMOVED. -->
{{Airport destination list
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| [[Asiana Cargo]]<ref name="asianacargo">[https://www.asianacargo.com/schedule/nodeSchedule.do asianacargo.com – Schedule by Route] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209180442/https://www.asianacargo.com/schedule/nodeSchedule.do |date=9 February 2019}} retrieved 27 April 2022.</ref> | [[Almaty International Airport|Almaty]], [[Frankfurt Airport|Frankfurt]], [[Incheon International Airport|Seoul–Incheon]]
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| [[Cargolux]]<ref name="www.eadt.co.uk">{{cite web |url=http://www.eadt.co.uk/business/stansted_freight_carrier_cargolux_launches_hong_kong_and_luxembourg_link_1_1885030 |title=Stansted: Freight carrier Cargolux launches Hong Kong and Luxembourg link |work=Eadt.co.uk |date=10 February 2013 |access-date=6 March 2013 |archive-date=14 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214025029/http://www.eadt.co.uk/business/stansted_freight_carrier_cargolux_launches_hong_kong_and_luxembourg_link_1_1885030 |url-status=live}}</ref> | [[Luxembourg Findel Airport|Luxembourg]]
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| [[China Southern Airlines|China Southern Cargo]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://inforwarding.oagcargo.com/index/display/id/56567|title=Operational Announcements for the Air Cargo industry|access-date=2 June 2015|archive-date=20 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150620224618/http://inforwarding.oagcargo.com/index/display/id/56567|url-status=dead}}</ref> | [[Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport|Guangzhou]]
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| [[Emirates SkyCargo]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.skycargo.com/media/3074/june2024-8000x4500.jpg|title=Route Network (June 2024)|website= Emirates SkyCargo|date=June 2024|access-date=22 June 2024}}</ref> | [[Brussels Airport|Brussels]], [[Al Maktoum International Airport|Dubai–Al Maktoum]]
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| [[FedEx Express]]<ref name="auto3">{{cite web|url=https://www.stanstedairport.com/about-us/cargo/|title=London Stansted Cargo|access-date=28 July 2022|archive-date=6 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220106173715/https://www.stanstedairport.com/about-us/cargo/|url-status=live}}</ref>| [[Dublin Airport|Dublin]], [[Frankfurt Airport|Frankfurt]], [[Indianapolis International Airport|Indianapolis]], [[Memphis International Airport|Memphis]], [[Charles de Gaulle Airport|Paris–Charles de Gaulle]]
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| [[Qatar Airways Cargo]]<ref name="qrcargo.com">[http://www.qrcargo.com/docs/07.Summer%2019%20Freighter%20Schedule%20Issue%207%20-%20Effective%201st%20October%202019%20to%2026th%20October%202019.pdf qrcargo.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808230535/https://www.qrcargo.com/docs/07.Summer%2019%20Freighter%20Schedule%20Issue%207%20-%20Effective%201st%20October%202019%20to%2026th%20October%202019.pdf |date=8 August 2020}} retrieved 12 September 2019.</ref> | [[Hamad International Airport|Doha]]
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| [[Turkish Cargo]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/280963/turkish-cargo-adds-london-stansted-service-from-oct-2018/|title=Turkish Cargo adds London Stansted service from Oct 2018|access-date=11 October 2018|archive-date=11 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181011181412/https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/280963/turkish-cargo-adds-london-stansted-service-from-oct-2018/|url-status=live}}</ref> | [[Istanbul Airport|Istanbul]]
<!-- -->
| [[UPS Airlines]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://consultations.caa.co.uk/policy-development/airspace-change-masterplan-criteria/supporting_documents/UPS%20Response%20CAA%20Proposed%20Criteria%20Airspace%20Change%20Masterplan.pdf/|title=UPS Proposed Criteria for Assessing and Accepting the Airspace Change Masterplan|access-date=28 July 2022|archive-date=21 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210721093947/https://consultations.caa.co.uk/policy-development/airspace-change-masterplan-criteria/supporting_documents/UPS%20Response%20CAA%20Proposed%20Criteria%20Airspace%20Change%20Masterplan.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto3"/> | [[Cologne Bonn Airport|Cologne/Bonn]], [[Hong Kong International Airport|Hong Kong]], [[Louisville International Airport|Louisville]], [[Philadelphia International Airport|Philadelphia]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport|Newark]]
|
}}

=== Route development ===
{{more citations needed section|date=May 2024}}
Long-haul scheduled services commenced in 1987 with a short lived service from the Scottish airline Highland Express to Newark Liberty International Airport via Prestwick Airport. In the early 1990s [[American Airlines]] operated a transatlantic service between Stansted and [[Chicago O'Hare International Airport|Chicago–O'Hare]], but the route was unprofitable and was withdrawn in 1993.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Harrison |first=Michael |date=1 April 1993 |title=American Airlines to quit Stansted: Long haul carrier scraps Chicago service |work=The Independent |location=UK |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/american-airlines-to-quit-stansted-long-haul-carrier-scraps-chicago-service-1452654.html |url-status=live |access-date=11 May 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090725221804/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/american-airlines-to-quit-stansted-long-haul-carrier-scraps-chicago-service-1452654.html |archive-date=25 July 2009}}</ref> [[Continental Airlines]] also operated services in the late 1990s from [[Newark Liberty International Airport]], but this service was stopped shortly after the [[September 11 attacks]] in 2001.{{citation needed|date=April 2023}}

Long-haul services to the United States returned in late 2005, when [[Eos Airlines]] and [[MAXjet Airways]] commenced all-business class services from Stansted to [[John F. Kennedy International Airport|New York–JFK]]. In 2006, MAXjet expanded their service with flights to [[Washington Dulles International Airport|Washington–Dulles]], [[Harry Reid International Airport|Las Vegas]], and [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]]. American Airlines began daily flights to Stansted in October 2007 from New York–JFK and was originally expected to operate a second daily flight from April 2008. However, because of the [[2000s energy crisis|jump in fuel price]], [[Financial crisis of 2007–2008|weakening economic performance]], and worsening credit environment at the time,<ref>{{cite web |date=27 April 2008 |title=Why Eos failed – Business Traveller – The leading magazine for frequent flyers |url=https://www.businesstraveller.com/news/2008/04/27/why-eos-failed/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181130113029/https://www.businesstraveller.com/news/2008/04/27/why-eos-failed/ |archive-date=30 November 2018 |access-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |agency=Press Association |date=24 December 2007 |title=MAXjet goes bankrupt |newspaper=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2007/dec/24/maxjetbankrupt |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902180813/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2007/dec/24/maxjetbankrupt |archive-date=2 September 2017 |access-date=2 September 2017 |via=www.theguardian.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=28 May 2008 |title=American Airlines Eliminates JFK-Stansted Service |url=http://www.ibtimes.com/american-airlines-eliminates-jfk-stansted-service-221052 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902185554/http://www.ibtimes.com/american-airlines-eliminates-jfk-stansted-service-221052 |archive-date=2 September 2017 |access-date=2 September 2017 |website=[[International Business Times]]}}</ref> all three services to the United States have since been discontinued following the demise of MAXjet Airways in December 2007 and Eos Airlines in April 2008. Finally, in July 2008, American Airlines withdrew from Stansted, alongside its services to [[Gatwick Airport|Gatwick]], and consolidated all operations at [[Heathrow Airport|Heathrow]].{{citation needed|date=April 2023}}

Long-haul transatlantic operations made a brief return to Stansted in June 2010, when [[Sun Country Airlines]] announced a seasonal weekly service from Stansted to [[Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport|Minneapolis/St. Paul]]. The flights made a refuelling stopover in [[Gander International Airport|Gander]], [[Newfoundland and Labrador]] as the aircraft used for the flight, a [[Boeing 737-800]], would not be able to complete a nonstop westbound flight from Stansted to Minneapolis. The flights operated from 11 June to 15 August 2010. In 2011, Sun Country operated to Gatwick rather than Stansted and then discontinued flights due to the price involved in carrying fuel on long-haul flights. {{Citation needed|date=May 2017}}.
Long-haul services to Asia commenced in March 2009<ref>{{Cite news |title=Air Asia X launches flights between Stansted and KL – Business Traveller |language=en-GB |work=Business Traveller |url=https://www.businesstraveller.com/news/2009/03/09/air-asia-x-launches-flights-between-stansted-and-kl/ |url-status=live |access-date=2018-10-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181028073717/https://www.businesstraveller.com/news/2009/03/09/air-asia-x-launches-flights-between-stansted-and-kl/ |archive-date=28 October 2018}}</ref> with Malaysian low-cost airline [[AirAsia X]] providing direct flights to [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]]; however, on 24 October 2011, this service moved to [[Gatwick Airport]] before being later withdrawn completely. Low-cost airline [[Primera Air]] launched non-stop flights from Stansted to [[Boston Logan International Airport|Boston]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport|Newark]], [[Toronto Pearson Airport|Toronto-Pearson]] and [[Washington Dulles International Airport|Washington–Dulles]], until the collapse of the airline meant the discontinuation of the routes by 2018, leaving Stansted without transatlantic routes once more. In 2018, [[Emirates (airline)|Emirates]] began operating daily flights to its hub at [[Dubai International Airport|Dubai-International]] using its [[Boeing 777-300ER]] aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emirates plans London Stansted launch in June 2018 |url=https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/276320/emirates-plans-london-stansted-launch-in-june-2018/ |access-date=2023-02-28 |website=Routes |language=en-GB}}</ref> The route has since increased to a twice daily service.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Spotters |first=Sebastián Polito-Vuelos y |date=2023-01-13 |title=Emirates increases flights to London Stansted |url=https://www.aviacionline.com/2023/01/emirates-increases-flights-to-london-stansted/ |access-date=2023-02-28 |website=Aviacionline.com |language=es}}</ref>

The [[COVID-19 pandemic]] negatively impacted [[Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on aviation|the aviation industry]], with Stansted Airport not being immune from the fallout. [[Ural Airlines]] (to [[Moscow Domodedovo Airport|Moscow–Domodedovo]]),{{citation needed|date=January 2024}} [[Scandinavian Airlines]] (to [[Copenhagen Airport|Copenhagen]]),<ref>{{Cite web |title=SAS adds Copenhagen – London Stansted service from April 2019 |url=https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/282844/sas-adds-copenhagen-london-stansted-service-from-april-2019/ |access-date=2023-02-28 |website=Routes |language=en-GB}}</ref> [[Air India]] (to [[Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport|Amritsar]] and [[Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport|Mumbai]]),{{citation needed|date=January 2024}} [[Air Senegal]] (to [[Blaise Diagne International Airport|Dakar–Diass]])<ref name="routesonline.com">{{Cite web |title=El Al resumes London Stansted service in S20 |url=https://www.routesonline.com/news/38/airlineroute/289533/el-al-resumes-london-stansted-service-in-s20/ |access-date=2023-02-28 |website=Routes |language=en-GB}}</ref> and [[El Al]] (to [[Ben Gurion Airport|Tel Aviv]]),<ref name="routesonline.com"/> were either scheduled to begin in 2020, or had recently began operation but have since not returned. Additionally, [[easyJet]], one of the largest operators at the airport at the time, announced the closure of their base at Stansted, which had more than two dozen routes and existed for more than a decade, in August 2020.<ref name="easy">{{cite web |date=17 August 2020 |title=Advice for easyJet customers |url=https://mediacentre.easyjet.com/story/14526/advice-for-easyjet-customers-due-to-fly-to-or-from-london-stansted-london-southend-and-newcastle-airports-from-1-september-2020 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819164802/https://mediacentre.easyjet.com/story/14526/advice-for-easyjet-customers-due-to-fly-to-or-from-london-stansted-london-southend-and-newcastle-airports-from-1-september-2020 |archive-date=19 August 2020 |access-date=18 August 2020 |work=mediacentre.easyjet.com/story |publisher=EasyJet |quote=easyJet has confirmed that the closure of its bases at London Stansted, London Southend and Newcastle will go ahead following the completion of its collective consultation process.}}</ref>

==Statistics==
===Development===
In 1988, over 1.1&nbsp;million passengers passed through Stansted, the first time annual passenger numbers had exceeded 1 million at the airport.<ref name="Oldstats">{{cite web |url=http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid=80&pagetype=88&sglid=22 |title=1983 – 1997 Airport Statistics – Aviation Intelligence |publisher=United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority |access-date=28 January 2013 |archive-date=3 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603004320/http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid=80&pagetype=88&sglid=22 |url-status=live}}</ref> Consistent year-on-year growth followed, and by 1997, the total had reached over 5 million, rapidly rising to almost 12&nbsp;million in 2000.<ref name="stats"/>

In 2007, passenger numbers peaked at nearly 24&nbsp;million, but then declined for five years, and in 2012, the total was around 17.5 million. An increase of 2.2% was recorded in 2013 to 17.8 million passengers, then 11.7% in 2014 to 19.9 million, followed by 12.8% in 2015 to 22.5&nbsp;million, and 8.0% in 2016 to a record total of 24.3&nbsp;million, making Stansted the [[List of busiest airports in the United Kingdom|fourth-busiest airport]] in the United Kingdom.<ref name="stats"/> Stansted also is a major freight airport, the third-busiest in the UK during 2016, behind London Heathrow and East Midlands Airport, handling in excess of 223,203 tonnes per annum, although freight throughput has declined slightly from its 2005 peak level.<ref name="stats"/>

Passenger numbers for the year ending September 2016 increased by 8.4% to over 24&nbsp;million for the first time since 2007.<ref>{{cite journal|title=London Stansted Airport|journal=Airliner World|issue=December 2016|page=9}}</ref> Passenger numbers for 2023 was 28 million. [https://www.aero.uk/news-46668/Stansted-shy-of-28-million-passengers-in-2023.html#:~:text=The%20total%20number%20of%20passengers%20that%20passed%20through,the%20third%20busiest%20year%20ever%20for%20London%20Stansted. link]

===Traffic figures===
{{Airport-Statistics|iata=STN}}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:right; margin:auto;"
! Year!!Number of<br />passengers<br /><ref group=nb>Number of passengers including both domestic and international</ref>!!Percentage<br />change !! Number of<br />movements<br /><ref group=nb>Number of movements represents total aircraft takeoffs and landings during that year.</ref>!!Freight<br />(tonnes)
|-
!2000
|11,878,190 || – || 165,779 || 167,823
|-
!2001
|13,665,333 || {{increase}}15.0% || 169,583 || 165,660
|-
!2002
|16,054,522 || {{increase}}17.5% || 170,544 || 184,449
|-
!2003
|18,722,112 || {{increase}}16.6% || 186,475 || 198,565
|-
!2004
|20,910,842 || {{increase}}11.7% || 192,245 || 225,772
|-
!2005
|21,998,673|| {{increase}}{{0}}5.2% || 193,511 || 237,045
|-
!2006
|23,687,013 || {{increase}}{{0}}7.7% || 206,693 || 224,312
|-
!2007
|23,779,697 || {{increase}}{{0}}0.4% || 208,462 || 203,747
|-
!2008
|22,360,364 || {{decrease}}{{0}}6.0% || 193,282 || 197,738
|-
!2009
|19,957,077 || {{decrease}}10.7% || 167,817 || 182,810
|-
!2010
|18,573,592 || {{decrease}}{{0}}6.9% || 155,140 || 202,238
|-
!2011
|18,052,843 || {{decrease}}{{0}}2.8% || 148,317 || 202,593
|-
!2012
|17,472,699 || {{decrease}}{{0}}3.2% || 143,511 || 214,160
|-
!2013
|17,852,393 || {{increase}}{{0}}2.2% || 146,324 || 211,952
|-
!2014
|19,941,593 || {{increase}}11.7% || 157,117 || 204,725
|-
!2015
|22,519,178 || {{increase}}12.9% || 168,629 || 207,996
|-
!2016
|24,320,071 || {{increase}}{{0}}8.0% || 180,430 || 223,203
|-
!2017
|25,902,618 || {{increase}}{{0}}6.5% || 189,919 || 236,892
|-
!2018
|27,996,116 || {{increase}}{{0}}8.1% || 201,614
|| 226,128
|-
!2019
|28,139,051 || {{increase}}{{0}}0.5% || 199,925
|| 224,139
|-
!2020
|7,536,869 || {{decrease}}{{0}}72.2% || 86,107
|| 254,573
|-
!2021
|7,145,802 || {{decrease}}{{0}}5.2% || 93,316
|| 263,631
|-
!2022
|23,289,652 || {{increase}}{{0}}225.9% || 159,502
|| 
|- class="sortbottom"
| colspan="5" style="text-align:right;"| <sup>''Source: [[United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority|UK Civil Aviation Authority]]''<ref name="stats"/></sup><br />
{{reflist|group="nb"}}
|}

===Busiest routes===
{|class="wikitable sortable" style="margin:1em auto;"
|+ Busiest routes to and from Stansted (2022)<ref name="routestats">{{cite web |url=http://www.caa.co.uk/Data-and-analysis/UK-aviation-market/Airports/Datasets/UK-Airport-data/Airport-data-2022/ |title=Airport Data 2022 |date=21 March 2023 |publisher=UK Civil Aviation Authority |at=Tables 12.1(XLS) and 12.2 (XLS) |access-date=25 March 2023 }}</ref>
! Rank || Airport || Total <br />passengers || Change<br />2021 / 22
|-
|1|| [[Dublin Airport|Dublin]] ||align='right'| 815,761 || {{increase}} 164.4%
|-
|2|| [[Sabiha Gökçen International Airport|Istanbul–Sabiha Gökçen]] ||align='right'| 726,387||{{increase}} 255.4%
|-
|3|| [[Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport|Budapest]] ||align='right'| 479,766||{{increase}} 258.0%
|-
|4|| [[Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport|Rome–Ciampino]] ||align='right'| 470,293||{{increase}} 290.6%
|-
|5|| [[Tenerife South Airport|Tenerife–South]] ||align='right'| 451,476||{{increase}} 270.8%
|-
|6|| [[Orio al Serio International Airport|Bergamo]] ||align='right'| 441,375||{{increase}} 252.1%
|-
|7|| [[Lisbon Portela Airport|Lisbon]] ||align='right'| 436,069||{{increase}} 131.6%
|-
|8|| [[Barcelona El-Prat Airport|Barcelona]] ||align='right'| 435,732||{{increase}} 195.5%
|-
|9|| [[Palma de Mallorca Airport|Palma de Mallorca]] ||align='right'| 387,592||{{increase}} 195.5%
|-
|10|| [[Faro Airport|Faro]] ||align='right'| 380,778||{{increase}} 195.5%
|-
|11|| [[Alicante–Elche Airport|Alicante]] ||align='right'| 372,451||{{increase}} 166.3%
|-
|12|| [[Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport|Madrid]] ||align='right'| 370,521||{{increase}} 157.4%
|-
|13|| [[Henri Coandă International Airport|Bucharest]] ||align='right'| 364,025||{{increase}} 149.7%
|-
|14|| [[Málaga Airport|Málaga]] ||align='right'| 341,438||{{increase}} 186.6%
|-
|15|| [[Porto Airport|Porto]] ||align='right'| 337,183||{{increase}} 158.9%
|-
|16|| [[Warsaw Modlin Airport|Warsaw–Modlin]] ||align='right'| 322,116||{{increase}} 187.0%
|-
|17|| [[Antalya Airport|Antalya]] ||align='right'| 320,545||{{increase}} 967.5%
|-
|18|| [[Berlin Brandenburg Airport|Berlin]] ||align='right'| 319,487||{{increase}} 217.1%
|-
|19|| [[Eindhoven Airport|Eindhoven]] ||align='right'| 308,211||{{increase}} 639.7%
|-
|20|| [[Milan Malpensa Airport|Milan–Malpensa]] ||align='right'| 300,009||{{increase}} 300.8%
|}

==Ground transport==
===Airside Transit system===
[[File:Stansted Airport People Mover.JPG|thumb|The transit system which links the main terminal building to satellite buildings 1 (gates 1 – 19) and 2 (gates 20 – 39)]]
{{Main article|Stansted Airport Transit System}}
The Stansted Airport Transit System connects the terminal to the satellite buildings via a {{convert|2|mi|0|abbr=on|adj=on}} free [[automated people mover]] service, which runs on dual concrete tracks. The system uses a mix of Adtranz C-100 and [[Innovia APM 100|CX-100]] vehicles to carry passengers to departure gates. Unlike the similar [[Gatwick Airport Shuttle Transit]], the Stansted transit is only accessible "airside" (i.e. only after passengers pass through security). As part of the [[#Terminal_redevelopment|airport expansion plans]], it is planned to decommission the Transit System in spring 2026 to make way for an expanded terminal. The transit will be replaced with pedestrian bridges.<ref name="constructionenquirer-2023">{{cite news |last1=Morby |first1=Aaron |title=Plan in for Stansted airport terminal extension |url=https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/09/27/plan-in-for-stansted-airport-terminal-extension/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212154837/https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/09/27/plan-in-for-stansted-airport-terminal-extension/ |archive-date=12 December 2023 |access-date=12 December 2023 |work=Construction Enquirer}}</ref>
[[File:Bahnhof Stansted Airport.JPG|thumb|Stansted Airport railway station in 2014]]

===Trains===
[[File:Greater Anglia Class 745-1 Stansted Express train at Liverpool Street.jpg|thumb|A [[British Rail Class 745|Class 745]] train operating the Stansted Express at London Liverpool Street]]{{Main articles|Stansted Airport railway station}}
[[Stansted Airport railway station]] is situated in the terminal building directly below the main concourse.<ref name="officialaccess">[http://www.stanstedairport.com/to-and-from-the-airport/ stanstedairport.com – To & From the Airport] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417003951/http://www.stanstedairport.com/to-and-from-the-airport/ |date=17 April 2017}} retrieved 25 April 2017.</ref>

Services to London are on the [[Stansted Express]] train to and from [[Liverpool Street station|London Liverpool Street]] in Central London. This service operates every 15 minutes and the usual journey time is between 45 and 53 minutes. Liverpool Street is served by the [[Central line (London Underground)|Central]], [[Circle line (London Underground)|Circle]], [[Hammersmith & City line|Hammersmith & City]] and [[Metropolitan line|Metropolitan]] lines of the [[London Underground]] network, alongside the [[Elizabeth line]], offering access throughout London. The Stansted Express also calls at [[Tottenham Hale station|Tottenham Hale]], for the Underground's [[Victoria line]] and connections to various destinations in North London and the [[West End of London|West End]]. Some Stansted Express services also call at [[Stansted Mountfitchet railway station|Stansted Mountfitchet]], [[Bishops Stortford railway station|Bishop's Stortford]] and/or [[Harlow Town railway station|Harlow Town]] en route to London Liverpool Street.<ref name="officialaccess"/>

[[CrossCountry]] operates an hourly service from the airport to [[Birmingham New Street railway station|Birmingham New Street]], via [[Cambridge railway station|Cambridge]], [[Peterborough railway station|Peterborough]] and [[Leicester railway station|Leicester]]. [[Greater Anglia (train operating company)|Greater Anglia]] operates services to [[Norwich railway station|Norwich]] via Cambridge.<ref name="officialaccess"/>

===Buses and coaches===
Scheduled express bus or coach services which run to and from London are provided by [[National Express Coaches|National Express]] and Airport Bus Express.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.stanstedairport.com/getting-to-and-from/by-bus-and-coach/ | title=Coach and Bus Services }}</ref> The bus station is next to the terminal building.

Airport Bus Express operates service A21 to and from [[Liverpool Street Station]] via Stratford. National Express operates nearly 200 round trips a day and runs services A6 to [[Paddington Station]] typically every 30 minutes and taking 100 minutes (via Golders Green, Finchley Road, St. John's Wood, Baker Street and Marble Arch), A7 to [[Victoria Coach Station]] typically every 30 minutes and taking 115 minutes (via Bow, Mile End, Whitechapel, Southwark, and Waterloo), A8 to [[King's Cross Station]] typically every 30 minutes and taking 115 minutes (via Tottenham Hale, Shoreditch and Liverpool Street) and A9 non-stop to Stratford typically 2-3 times an hour and taking 50 minutes.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nationalexpress.com/en/airports/stansted | title=Coaches to Stansted Airport from £7.50 }}</ref> 

National Express also runs direct coach services to the airport from [[Luton Airport]] and Heathrow, and additionally from Birmingham (11 a day), Oxford (8 a day), Norwich (10 a day), and Cambridge (11 a day).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timetables.nationalexpress.com/routes|publisher=National Express|title=Timetable finder. Airport|access-date=5 July 2019|archive-date=23 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190923115651/https://timetables.nationalexpress.com/routes|url-status=live}}</ref>

Stansted is also the start of the [[Essex Airlink]] X30 coach service to [[Southend-on-Sea]] via [[Chelmsford]] and [[London Southend Airport]], the X20 coach service to [[Colchester]] via [[Braintree, Essex|Braintree]] and the X10 coach service to [[Basildon]] via Chelmsford, all operated hourly by [[First Essex]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.firstgroup.com/essex/airport-services|publisher=First Essex|title=Airport services|access-date=5 July 2019}}</ref>

Local bus services operate to nearby communities, including the 510/509/508 (Harlow to Stansted via Stansted Mountfitchet, Parsonage Lane and Takeley, respectively), 7/7a (Bishops Stortford to Stansted), 133 (Braintree), and 6 (Saffron Walden), operated by Arriva.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.stanstedcommuter.com/bus-and-coach-services/local-buses/|title=Local buses|publisher=London Stansted Airport|access-date=5 July 2019|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808034419/https://www.stanstedcommuter.com/bus-and-coach-services/local-buses/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.arrivabus.co.uk/herts-and-essex/services/508-509-510---harlow-to-stansted-airport/?direction=outbound|title=Arriva in Herts and Essex|publisher=Arriva|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803104743/https://www.arrivabus.co.uk/herts-and-essex/services/508-509-510---harlow-to-stansted-airport/?direction=outbound|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Roads===
Stansted is connected to northeast London and Cambridge by the [[M11 motorway]] and to [[Braintree, Essex|Braintree]], [[Colchester]], and [[Harwich]] by the A120, which is dual-carriageway until Braintree. The road distance to London is {{convert|37|mi|km}}.<ref name="officialaccess"/>

As of October 1996, the airport has 2,500 short-stay parking spaces within walking distance to the terminal. In addition, as of the same month, the airport has over 8,000 long-stay spaces located near the M11 motorway and A120 junction. A courtesy bus service links the long-stay spaces to the terminal.<ref name="parking">Stansted Website on [http://www.stanstedairport.com/portal/page/Stansted%5EGeneral%5ETo+and+from+Stansted%5EStansted+parking+options/511892b57c77d110VgnVCM10000036821c0a____/448c6a4c7f1b0010VgnVCM200000357e120a____/ Stansted Parking Facilities] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110619053711/http://www.stanstedairport.com/portal/page/Stansted%5EGeneral%5ETo+and+from+Stansted%5EStansted+parking+options/511892b57c77d110VgnVCM10000036821c0a____/448c6a4c7f1b0010VgnVCM200000357e120a____/ |date=19 June 2011}}, visited 19 June 2011.</ref> The airport also offers mid-stay parking, closer to the terminal than its long-stay spaces.<ref name="parking" /> Stansted Airport also offers valet parking and a meet-and-greet service, which is similar to valet, but marketed more at the leisure-traveller market; both are run from the short-stay car park.<ref>Stansted Airport Press Release {{cite web |url=http://www.stanstedairport.com/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/new-'meet-and-greet'-service-to-open-at-stansted |title=Stansted: New 'Meet and Greet' service to open at Stansted |access-date=21 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130623042659/http://www.stanstedairport.com/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/new-'meet-and-greet'-service-to-open-at-stansted |archive-date=23 June 2013}} visited 21 June 2013.</ref>

==Incidents and accidents==
Stansted has been designated by the UK government as its preferred airport for any hijacked planes requesting to land in the UK.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/633654.stm|title=Stansted's hijack history|work=BBC News|access-date=3 August 2017|archive-date=7 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211207143236/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/633654.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> This is because its design allows a hijacked airliner to be isolated well away from any terminal buildings or runways, allowing the airport to continue to operate while negotiations are carried out, or even while an assault or rescue mission is undertaken. For this reason, Stansted has been involved in more hijack incidents than might be expected for an airport of its size.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/typhoon-jets-escort-pakistani-airliner-stansted-airport/|title=Typhoon jets escort Pakistani airliner to Stansted Airport|date=7 February 2017|access-date=24 April 2018|archive-date=16 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180216144015/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/typhoon-jets-escort-pakistani-airliner-stansted-airport/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* On 30 April 1956, a [[Scottish Airlines]] [[Avro York|Avro 685 York C.1]] suffered a runway excursion during a rejected takeoff, winding up in a drain on the side of the runway, collapsing the undercarriage. Two passengers died out of 54 on board.<ref>{{ASN accident|id=19560430-0|title=G-AMUL|accessdate= October 11, 2023}}</ref>
* On 23 December 1957, a Scottish Airlines Avro 685 York C.1, a cargo flight, crashed on its third approach to Stansted striking a tree 3/4 of a mile short of the runway, crashing in flames. All four occupants died.<ref>{{ASN accident|id=19571223-0|title=G-AMUN|accessdate= October 11, 2023}}</ref>
* On 27 February 1982, an [[Air Tanzania]] [[Boeing 737|Boeing 737-2R8C]] landed at the airport after having been hijacked on an internal flight from [[Mwanza Airport|Mwanza]] to [[Dar Es Salaam Airport|Dar es Salaam]] and flown to the UK via Nairobi, Jeddah, and Athens, where two passengers had been released. The hijackers demanded to speak to exiled Tanzanian opposition politician [[Oscar Kambona]]. This request was granted, and after 26 hours on the ground, the hijackers surrendered and the passengers were released.<ref name=bbcsth>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/633654.stm |title=Stansted's Hijack History |work=BBC News |date=7 February 2000 |access-date=6 January 2014 |archive-date=15 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115070142/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/633654.stm |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19820226-0 | title=Hijacking Description | publisher=Aviation Safety Network | date=6 January 2014 | access-date=6 January 2014 | archive-date=6 January 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140106234651/http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19820226-0 | url-status=live}}</ref>
*On 30 March 1998, an [[Emerald Airways]] [[Hawker Siddeley HS 748]] carrying the [[Leeds United F.C.]] was brought down immediately after takeoff when its starboard engine exploded. 40 passengers were onboard (18 from the Leeds team). Only two passengers were injured.
* On 22 December 1999, [[Korean Air Cargo Flight 8509]], a [[Boeing 747|Boeing 747-200F]], crashed shortly after take-off from the airfield due to pilot error. The only people on board at the time were the aircrew, and all four were killed. The aircraft crashed in [[Hatfield Forest]] near the village of Great Hallingbury.
* On 6 February 2000, an [[Ariana Afghan Airlines]] [[Boeing 727]] with 156 people on board was hijacked and flown – stopping at Tashkent, Kazakhstan, and Moscow – to Stansted Airport. After a four-day stand-off, the hostages on board were safely freed and the incident ended peacefully. The motive behind the hijack was to gain asylum in the UK, sparking another debate about immigration into the country. A large number of passengers on board the plane also applied for asylum. The remainder returned to Afghanistan.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/636375.stm|title=Special report: Hijack at Stansted|access-date=5 April 2007|work=BBC News|date=14 February 2000|archive-date=10 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110114215/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/636375.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> Nine hijackers were jailed, but their convictions for hijacking were quashed for misdirection of the jury in 2003, and in July 2004, a court ruled that they could not be deported from the UK.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/essex/3889107.stm|title=Afghans win right to stay in UK|access-date=5 April 2007|work=BBC News|date=13 July 2004|archive-date=15 January 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115064351/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/essex/3889107.stm|url-status=live}}</ref>
* On 24 May 2013, [[Pakistan International Airlines]] Flight 709 from [[Lahore, Pakistan]], was escorted by RAF Typhoons after being diverted from Manchester Airport due to an onboard threat. Two men were charged with endangering an aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22658979 |title=Two held after RAF Typhoon jets escort Pakistan plane over UK |work=BBC News |access-date=24 May 2013 |archive-date=25 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525014416/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22658979 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* On 21 September 2013, [[SriLankan Airlines]] Flight UL503 inbound to Heathrow was escorted by RAF Typhoons to Stansted Airport after being diverted. Two men were detained for endangering an aircraft, and one was formally arrested.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hertsandessexobserver.co.uk/News/Uttlesford/Two-men-arrested-for-endangering-aircraft-as-passenger-plane-is-diverted-to-Stansted-Airport-20130920231132.htm | title=Two men arrested for 'endangering aircraft' as passenger plane is diverted to Stansted Airport | publisher=Herts and Essex Observer (Online) | date=22 September 2013 | access-date=8 October 2013 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928013430/http://www.hertsandessexobserver.co.uk/News/Uttlesford/Two-men-arrested-for-endangering-aircraft-as-passenger-plane-is-diverted-to-Stansted-Airport-20130920231132.htm | archive-date=28 September 2013 | df=dmy-all}}</ref>

=== Protest incidents ===

* In 2008, 57 people were arrested after [[Plane Stupid]], an environmental activist group, broke through the barriers and created a "stockade" on a [[taxiway]], which resulted in 52 flights being cancelled.<ref>{{cite news |date=8 December 2008 |title=Runway protest strands passengers |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/essex/7771079.stm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090428190256/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/essex/7771079.stm |archive-date=28 April 2009 |access-date=11 May 2010 |work=BBC News}}</ref>
* In March 2018, a group of activists delayed a deportation flight to Nigeria.<ref name="batchelor">{{cite news |last1=Batchelor |first1=Tom |date=28 March 2017 |title=Stansted Airport runway closed after activists stage protest against Home Office deportation flight |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/stansted-airport-closed-protesters-deportation-plane-runway-a7655036.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214174216/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/stansted-airport-closed-protesters-deportation-plane-runway-a7655036.html |archive-date=14 December 2018 |access-date=14 December 2018 |work=The Independent}}</ref> 15 of the protestors were found guilty of "intentional disruption of services at an aerodrome", under the ''Aviation and Maritime Security Act 1990''. This verdict on the ''Stansted 15'' was described in ''[[New Statesman]]'' as having a [[chilling effect]] on public dissent.<ref name="camiss">{{cite news |last1=Camiss |first1=Stephen |date=11 December 2018 |title=The use of anti-terror laws to convict the Stansted 15 will chill public dissent |url=https://www.newstatesman.com/2018/12/use-anti-terror-laws-convict-stansted-15-will-chill-public-dissent |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214164210/https://www.newstatesman.com/2018/12/use-anti-terror-laws-convict-stansted-15-will-chill-public-dissent |archive-date=14 December 2018 |access-date=14 December 2018 |work=New Statesman}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[List of airports in the United Kingdom and the British Crown Dependencies]]
* [[Airports of London]]
* [[List of Royal Air Force stations]]

==References==

===Citations===
{{reflist}}

===Bibliography===
* Freeman, Roger A. (1994) UK Airfields of the Ninth: Then and Now. After the Battle {{ISBN|0-900913-80-0}}
* Maurer, Maurer (1983). Air Force Combat Units Of World War II. Maxwell AFB, Alabama: Office of Air Force History. {{ISBN|0-89201-092-4}}.#
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090130025918/http://home.att.net/~jbaugher/usafserials.html USAAS-USAAC-USAAF-USAF Aircraft Serial Numbers—1908 to present]
* The Bishop's Stortford Herald newspaper, 26 April 2007.
* {{cite book|first=Berry|last=Ritchie|title=The Good Builder: The John Laing Story|publisher=James & James|year=1997}}
* {{cite journal|last=Wright|first=Alan J.|title=The Stansted Sage|journal=Aircraft Illustrated|date=February 1978|volume= 11|issue= 2|pages=69–75}}

==External links==
* {{Commons category-inline|London Stansted Airport}}
* {{Wikivoyage inline|London Stansted Airport}}
* {{ASN|STN}}
* {{official website|https://www.stanstedairport.com}}

{{Airports in the United Kingdom}}
{{Transport in London}}
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