The busiest airports near London, Ontario

London, Ontario is perfectly positioned to take advantage of so many outstanding airports

LONDON, ONTARIO IS a fast-growing and diverse destination less than two hours from Toronto. The perfect midway point between ‘The Six’ and Detroit, London is quickly becoming a destination in its own right with its exciting markets, historical sites, and the proud title of Canada’s first UNESCO City of Music.

With such a rapidly growing metropolitan area, both London International Airport and its surrounding airports will have to flex their aviation muscles to prove which is the best option when flying in and out of this key city. Let’s take a look at the busiest and best airports in the region, whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or flying in to soak up some of the famous London sights and sounds.

1. London International Airport (YXU)

London International Airport, located just 9 kilometres northeast of downtown London, is the city’s primary gateway for air travel. The airport offers services to key hubs like Toronto Pearson International Airport and holiday hotspots like Cancun and Orlando.

Accessibility is the word with London International, with the airport being a 20-minute drive from the city centre. There’s ample parking just a short walk from the terminal, making it an excellent choice for those who value convenience. While its smaller size means fewer amenities compared to larger hubs, you’ll be through security in no time with shorter queues than you’ll find at busier airports nearby.

2. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Just over the border and a two-and-a-half hour drive from London, Ontario, is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. This major U.S. hub offers great coverage for domestic and international connections. Its two modern terminals are equipped with amenities such as Delta’s flagship Sky Club lounge, which is a dream when waiting for your connection back to London, Ontario. Popular routes include major U.S. cities like Atlanta and international destinations such as Amsterdam and Tokyo.

With the added requirement of crossing the U.S.-Canada border, it could take more time for some, but if you’ve got valid travel documents, DTW often provides competitive fares and a wide range of airline choices, particularly for transatlantic travel.

3. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

A similar distance from London as Detroit, Buffalo Niagara International Airport is a mid-sized U.S. airport popular with Canadians. Known for offering excellent deals on domestic airfares, BUF is a great choice for travellers seeking low-cost flights to U.S. cities such as New York and Washington, D.C.

Driving to the airport takes about three hours, with a necessary border crossing en route. Its smaller size means shorter lines and faster processing times, making it a stress-free alternative for short-haul destinations.

4. Hamilton International Airport (YHM)

Hamilton International Airport is an increasingly popular choice for those looking for deals on domestic flights. With airlines like Swoop offering low-cost flights, it serves destinations in Canada, the U.S., and the Caribbean. The airport is just a 90-minute drive along Highway 403 and parking is easy. It’s smaller than Toronto Pearson, so you can expect shorter queues and wait times. Hamilton International is probably your best alternative if you can’t find the flight you want at London International.

 5. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Chicago O’Hare International Airport, one of the busiest in the United States, is situated about 580 kilometres west of London. With four expansive terminals and connections to virtually every continent, O’Hare is the ultimate choice for international travel. Popular routes include destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Though the six-hour drive from London is a downside, Chicago is probably one of the most popular destinations for layovers before leaving the States. The airport is home to 14 lounges and almost every type of store and dining establishment you can think of. Full Wi-Fi coverage will make your layover more bearable.

6. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest and busiest airport, is a major travel hub located around 170 kilometres northeast of London. Offering connections to virtually every continent, Pearson provides flights to destinations such as London (UK), New York, and Dubai. The airport boasts world-class amenities, including six lounges, shopping, and dining, making it a favourite for international travellers.

For those travelling by private jet, Toronto Pearson is probably the best option in Canada, with three private terminals offering everything from nap rooms to business centres.

7. Windsor International Airport (YQG)

Windsor International Airport is just a stone’s throw from the U.S. border, and around 200 kilometres from London, Ontario. It’s a small yet efficient regional airport. While its flight options are limited, it provides excellent connections to Toronto and seasonal services to sunny destinations. The airport is a 2.5-hour drive from London and offers the added convenience of proximity to Detroit for travellers needing a larger hub.

For those travelling regionally or seeking a seamless border-crossing experience, Windsor International is a practical option.

8. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is a great mid-sized airport, serving over 10 million passengers annually. It offers a solid balance of domestic and international routes, with flights to key U.S. hubs and hotspots in Europe and the Caribbean. Whether you’re departing from London, Ontario, or heading home from the States, flying into Cleveland Hopkins does mean an overland border crossing. We’d recommend looking for a connecting flight to London to save this hassle.

9. Kitchener-Waterloo International Airport (YKF)

Just a 75-minute drive from London, Kitchener-Waterloo International Airport is a small regional airport, perfect for getting around Canada or short-haul trips into the U.S. It serves a handful of Canadian and U.S. destinations, making it the perfect departure point for a weekend away.

10. Toronto Billy Bishop City Airport (YTZ)

Toronto’s second busiest airport, and located on the Toronto Islands, Billy Bishop City Airport is a unique option for getting around the country. While being the ninth largest airport in Canada, it’s both less convenient and offers fewer options than Toronto Pearson.

Specializing in short-haul flights, the airport primarily serves Canadian cities like Ottawa and Montreal, with limited options to the U.S. Accessibility is relatively easy – a two-hour drive from London or a combination of train and ferry transport for those travelling through Toronto. However, flying from either London or Hamilton should be simpler while offering at least as much availability.

From London, Ontario to Beyond

London, Ontario, is perfectly positioned to take advantage of so many outstanding airports, from the bustling Toronto Pearson to the world-class Chicago O’Hare. No matter what you need, whether it’s specialized accessibility or a private terminal to land your jet, there’s an airport close to London for you.