Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
December travel from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to London (LOND) combines festive demand with occasional winter disruptions. Nonstop carriers such as British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines increase capacity for the holidays, with the best fares typically available in early December and midweek departures. Expect flight durations around 6–7 hours eastbound; allow extra buffer time for check-in, security and winter commuting to JFK, EWR or LGA. Book now to lock in competitive pricing, and consider travel insurance for snow-related changes.
New York (All Airports) (NYCA) covers John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). In December, JFK and EWR typically offer the most nonstop transatlantic flights to London, while LGA primarily serves regional and connecting services. Check schedules and airlines for the best nonstop options and early booking windows.
Average round-trip economy fares in December typically range from $450 to $900 depending on dates, with early December and midweek departures often cheaper. Prices spike around peak holiday dates (mid-December through New Year's), so booking 2–3 months ahead or using fare alerts can secure lower rates. Consider flexible date search and sign up for airline deals to capture sale fares.
December in New York is cold with temps often between 28°F and 45°F (-2°C to 7°C), and occasional snow or icy conditions that can impact airport operations. Allow extra time for transfers to JFK, LGA or EWR and monitor airline notifications for winter weather delays. Pack warm layers and check your airline’s winter travel advisories before leaving.
Airlines maintain standard baggage allowances year-round, but expect stricter enforcement during busy holiday periods; ensure bags meet size and weight limits to avoid fees. Check-in earlier than usual—2.5 to 3 hours for international departures at JFK or EWR—and confirm carry-on policies, as overhead space fills quickly on December flights. Consider seat selection and priority boarding if you have tight connections.
To reach New York (All Airports) (NYCA) from Manhattan, take the JFK AirTrain + subway or taxi/rideshare to JFK, the MTA buses/subway to LGA, and NJ Transit or PATH plus AirTrain Newark to EWR. In December, allow extra travel time for traffic and possible snow; peak evening and morning windows are busiest. Book airport shuttles or rideshares early if traveling around holidays or large events.
From New York (All Airports) (NYCA) you can easily connect onward to nearby major cities and destinations like Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Montreal, and Toronto—great for multi-city itineraries before or after London. Many travelers fly to London and then continue to Paris, Edinburgh, or Amsterdam, so coordinate tickets and layovers carefully in December. Use multi-city search tools to compare pricing and schedules.
Arriving at London Heathrow Airport (LOND) in December means holiday crowds, festive markets, and occasionally slower processing times at immigration. Use eGates if eligible, consider Fast Track services to speed passport control, and pre-book Heathrow Express or the Elizabeth Line for predictable travel into central London. For onward travel to Windsor, Oxford or Bath, book national rail tickets in advance as December weekends fill up quickly due to holiday excursions.
Many transatlantic flights from New York arrive at London Heathrow Airport (LOND) due to its extensive international connections and ground transport options. Gatwick and London City can be alternatives depending on the airline and fare, but Heathrow offers the most nonstop services in December and the quickest access to central London via the Heathrow Express. Consider final destination, transport time, and baggage policies when selecting flights.
Arrival procedures at London Heathrow Airport (LOND) include passport control (ePassport gates for eligible nationals), baggage claim, and customs checks. During December, queues can be longer due to peak holiday volumes—use eGates where available and consider automated passport control or Fast Track services to reduce wait times. Allow 60–90 minutes from touchdown to exiting the terminal in peak periods.
While Heathrow’s rail and coach services (Heathrow Express, Elizabeth Line, TfL Rail, and National Express) generally operate reliably, December storms, snow or strikes can affect schedules. Expect occasional delays and plan extra time—especially for evening arrivals—by checking Transport for London (TfL) updates and booking flexible onward transport. Pre-booked taxis or rideshares are convenient during heavy holiday travel.
December brings high-impact seasonal events on both sides of the Atlantic. In London, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Southbank Centre Winter Market, West End holiday theatre runs, and Christmas lights on Oxford Street draw visitors. In New York, Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting, Bryant Park Winter Village and holiday shows increase airport traffic as travelers depart for London. Plan flights and accommodation early around major event dates, and buy show tickets in advance to avoid sold-out weekends.
The best time to fly from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to London (LOND) in December is early December (first two weeks) and midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid holiday surges. Avoid traveling during the high-demand window from December 20–January 2 when prices and crowds peak. Late-night departures can be less congested at airports, while morning flights are more likely to operate on schedule earlier in the month with fewer weather-related disruptions.
Nonstop flights from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to London (LOND) offer the fastest and most reliable option, especially in December when winter weather can complicate connections. However, one-stop itineraries through Reykjavik, Dublin or European hubs can be significantly cheaper and sometimes nearly as fast depending on layover length. If prioritizing time and minimizing disruption risk during the holiday season, choose nonstop service; if prioritizing price, check carefully-timed connections with adequate layover buffers.
Key carriers on NYCA → LOND in December include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. British Airways and Virgin are known for premium transatlantic service and strong schedule frequency to Heathrow; U.S. carriers offer competitive pricing and alliance benefits. Compare seat pitch, onboard service, lounge access and baggage allowances—business and premium economy cabins can offer more comfortable holiday travel with higher flexibility. Loyalty program status and alliance connections can influence the best choice for multi-city itineraries.
Traveling from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to London (LOND) in December requires planning for cold weather, potential snow delays, and heavier airport crowds. Pack layered clothing, waterproof shoes, travel-sized hand sanitizer, and necessary chargers; keep essential items in your carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed. Arrive earlier than standard international recommendations—3 hours is wise during peak holiday travel—and consider travel insurance or refundable fares for peace of mind. Download airline apps for real-time flight updates, and register for e-gates or Fast Track to speed through arrival if eligible.
Typical nonstop flight time from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to London Heathrow Airport (LOND) in December is about 6 to 7 hours eastbound, with westbound trips taking 7 to 8 hours depending on jet stream winds. Major carriers offer multiple daily departures, with peak windows in the morning and evening; overnight red-eye flights remain popular for business travelers. Check airline timetables for precise departure times—morning flights from JFK and EWR and late-evening transatlantic departures provide good connectivity into London mornings.
To secure cheap December flights from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to London (LOND), search flexible date ranges (±3 days), book early—ideally 6–12 weeks ahead—and monitor fare alerts from major OTAs and airlines. Target early December weekdays rather than peak holiday weekends to lower round-trip prices. Consider mixing carriers (one-way on different airlines) and try nearby airports (EWR vs JFK) for price differences. Use primary keywords like 'NYC to London December cheap flights' naturally in searches and sign up for airline sale notifications for last-minute opportunities.
Starting from $492
Book your economy class flight from New York (Any) to London (Any)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
Starting from $516
Book your economy class flight from New York (Any) to London (Any)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
Starting from $516
Book your economy class flight from New York (Any) to London (Any)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
Starting from $516
Book your economy class flight from New York (Any) to London (Any)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
Starting from $518
Book your economy class flight from New York (Any) to London (Any)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
Planning a trip from New York (Any) to London (Any) in december? SlickTrip helps you find the cheapest economy class flights with our comprehensive flight comparison tool. Whether you prefer direct flights for convenience or multi-stop flights for savings, we have options for every budget and schedule.
Pack waterproof outer layers, warm sweaters, a hat and an umbrella; London in December is cool and often rainy with temperatures typically 35°F–50°F (2°C–10°C). If you plan city sightseeing or countryside day trips to Edinburgh or Bath, bring layered clothing and comfortable shoes for wet cobblestones. Use a carry-on with a waterproof cover or a luggage lock, and check airline allowances for checked baggage during holiday travel.
From London Heathrow Airport (LOND) you can access top destinations such as central London, Windsor, Oxford, Bath, Brighton, and day trips to Paris via Eurostar from St Pancras (after transfer). Many travelers combine a London stay with visits to Edinburgh or Manchester on domestic flights or rail. December offers festive markets across these destinations, but book trains and attractions ahead of peak holiday dates.
