Germanwings: Moscow to London

The carrier: Germanwings

Upside
One of Europe's bigger low-cost airlines, with very good reach into the Balkans.

Downside
Operates in part on a connecting flight model, feeding passengers via hubs.

About
Germanwings is an indisputable giant, one of Germany's big three budget airlines. In 2007 Germanwings brought seven new Airbus A-319 planes into the fleet. These new planes currently have the lowest emissions rate.
In addition to its nine German destinations, 'wings' flies to four destinations in Turkey, six in Greece, six in Italy, and four in Croatia. The airline's less-served destinations include Moscow, St. Petersburg, Skopje, Tirana, Ohrid, Belgrade, and Pristina.

It benefits from one of the best and most wide-ranging destination tallies among the airlines we profile. Unlike many carriers, Germanwings' route map is broad and well-distributed across Europe. An added bonus we love? With the airline's "Smart Connect" one-stop booking tool, it is possible to purchase connecting flights as single fares.

Baggage
* Carry-on: No weight restriction specified, though baggage cannot measure more than 55 x 40 x 20 centimeters.
* Checked: Up to 20 kg of baggage (online €5 per piece is charged, at the airport €7 per piece); over this a charge of €7 per kilo applies.

Seating
Passengers are allowed on the plane in blocks according to when they checked in for the flight. Pre-booking is allowed online no later than 24 hours before departure for €5 per seat.

Tip
Germanwings hosts monthly offers, so check in often. Avoid early morning flights, which tend to be packed, out of their hubs. In general, allow enough time for check-in.
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Departure: Moscow, Russia - Vnukovo Int'l (VKO)

Vnukovo International is the oldest of all operating airports in Moscow, Russia.

Location: Vnukovo International is located 28 km (18 miles) outside Moscow's city center.

Transport:

- Rail: There is a high-speed rail link between the Kievsky Train Station in Moscow and Vnukovo Airport. A commuter train is also available with a similar route.

- Bus: There are many bus routes available to and from the airport and Moscow.

- Taxi: Taxi ranks are located outside the main airport terminal.

Service: Airport services include information desks, various shops, cafes, and restaurants, a first aid facility, currency exchanges, banks, nursery, and a pharmacy. If you're in a gambling mood, check out the airport's slot machines.
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Arrival: London, United Kingdom - Stansted (STN)

The name Stansted is synonymous with low-cost carriers. A massive hub for Ryanair, Stansted also serves as a hub for easyJet, Air Berlin, and nine other budget airlines. It's London's third-biggest airport.

Location: London-Stansted Airport is located 48 km (30 miles) northeast of London.

Transport:

- Rail: The Stansted Express provides a 45-minute train journey to Liverpool Street Station. National Express offers service to London Stratford and Lea Valley Stations. For more information on timetables and rates check the National Express Official Website. Cross-country trains serve destinations to the Midlands and the North.

- Bus: The Terravision express bus provides a 75-minute journey to Victoria, and the National Express bus line offers 90-minute journeys to Victoria, Liverpool, and Stratford Stations. There are also numerous other local buses that stop at the airport. Transfers can be made through Easybus as well.

- Taxi: Checker Cars taxi company serves Stansted airport and operates service to London and other destinations. The taxis can be found outside the terminal building. For more information consult the Website.

Service:There's an information desk in the international arrivals area as well as courtesy telephones throughout the terminal. Wi-Fi internet access is available too. In addition, the airport has multiple ATMs, a currency exchange, many restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. Other airport facilities include a baby changing area, showers, and a multi-faith chapel.

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