London to Madrid Travel Just Got Easier as British Airways Launches New Direct Route from December 1, 2025

Published on December 4, 2025

From 1 December 2025, travellers between the UK and Spain will benefit from a fresh, fast link: a new direct service by British Airways (via its London‑based subsidiary BA CityFlyer) connecting London City Airport (LCY) with Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD).

Flights will operate 11 times per week, using the regional jet Embraer E190 — an aircraft well-suited for the short‑haul hop between these two capitals, given London City Airport’s runway and performance constraints.

This relaunch marks the restoration of LCY–MAD connectivity which was suspended in 2020 when services were disrupted due to the pandemic.

Why This New Route Matters: Business, Leisure and Seamless Europe Access

The revival of the LCY–MAD link reflects strong demand for flexible short‑haul travel across major European capitals. London City Airport lies close to London’s core business district — making it ideal for business travellers seeking convenience without the long transfer to bigger airports. The choice of a frequent, nearly daily schedule signals British Airways’ intention to cater not only to tourists but to professionals, entrepreneurs, and frequent flyers.

Moreover, this reopening strengthens travel and tourism ties between the UK and Spain, boosting opportunities for cultural exchange, business trips, weekend breaks, and long‑haul connections onward from Madrid. For European travellers, the route offers an efficient gateway between two iconic cities.

London: Why the British Capital Still Captivates Global Travellers

London remains among the world’s top tourist magnets — drawing millions with its history, royal landmarks, cultural richness, and cosmopolitan aura.

Visitors landing at London City have swift access to:

• Tower of London and historic Westminster Abbey — prime heritage attractions steeped in British monarchy and history.
• The modern panorama offered by The London Eye — for sweeping river and city views at sunset.
• Culture‑heavy itineraries featuring world-class museums, iconic theatre productions in the West End, and historic inns and pubs reflecting London’s layered past.
• Vibrant shopping, eclectic neighbourhoods, classic red buses, black taxis and historic charm — delivering that quintessential London experience many crave.

Whether travellers come for royal history, modern arts, theatre, or urban vibes — London offers a blend that continues to enchant and inspire.

Madrid: Spain’s Capital Beckons with Royal Palaces, Art and Lively Culture

Madrid is a city of elegance, art, deep-rooted heritage, and vibrant city life — an ideal destination for lovers of history, art, architecture and urban energy.

Top highlights include:

• Royal Palace of Madrid — Europe’s largest royal residence and an architectural masterpiece rich with regal history and opulent interiors.
• The city’s famous museums and galleries, including classic art and modern collections, representing Spain’s cultural depth and European artistry.
• The bustling vibes of central neighbourhoods like Gran Via — perfect for nightlife, shopping, and experiencing Madrid’s dynamic urban energy after sunset.
• Historic streets and plazas, local gastronomy, tapas culture, lively markets, and a welcoming atmosphere that lures both culture seekers and casual travellers alike.

Madrid’s mix of regal grandeur, creative arts, and contemporary city life makes it an alluring destination — especially now that it’s more directly accessible from London.

What This Means for Travellers: Convenience, Culture, and Connection

The new LCY–MAD service opens up a fantastic opportunity for people seeking short city‑breaks or seamless travel between London and Madrid. For business travellers, the frequency and central‑location convenience of London City Airport reduce transit time dramatically. For leisure travellers exploring Europe’s rich cultural capitals, this route offers a hassle‑free bridge between the UK and Spain.

In practical terms: a London resident could book a same‑day flight and be in the heart of Madrid’s historic centre within a few hours. Similarly, Madrid-based travellers can reach London’s core and start sightseeing by late morning — all thanks to a simple flight onboard an Embraer E190 jet.

Final Word: A New Gateway to European Magic

With the launch of the new direct flight between London City and Madrid, British Airways has restored a vital link between two of Europe’s most beloved cities. Whether you crave historic palaces, royal landmarks, world‑class culture, or vibrant urban life — London and Madrid deliver. This refreshed route does more than connect runways; it bridges cultures, lifestyles and opportunities for travel, work, and discovery across borders.

As winter 2025 arrives, now is the time to book that spontaneous city‑hop — between Big Ben and flamenco‑filled Spanish nights, Britain’s royal heritage and Spain’s lively plazas.