About our London City Airport news
Latest news on London City Airport (LCY), providing comprehensive coverage of expansion plans, flight routes, passenger numbers, and developments at this key London transport hub near Canary Wharf.
London City Airport, situated in the Royal Docks area of East London, is the UK capital's most centrally located airport. Serving over 5 million passengers annually before the pandemic, LCY is a crucial link for business travellers and tourists alike, offering quick access to London's financial districts and beyond.
In a significant development, on 19 August 2024, the UK Labour government approved LCY's expansion plans, allowing the airport to increase its annual passenger capacity from 6.5 million to 9 million by 2031. The decision includes permission for three additional early morning flights on weekdays, but notably rejects the airport's request for Saturday afternoon operations. This expansion comes despite opposition from environmental groups and some local residents concerned about noise and air pollution.
LCY continues to innovate in airport technology and passenger experience. In 2021, it became the first major airport in the world to be operated by a remote digital air traffic control tower, with controllers based 80 miles away in Swanwick, Hampshire. The airport has also been at the forefront of streamlining security processes, becoming the first major UK airport to drop the 100ml liquid rule in April 2023, allowing passengers to carry up to 2 litres of liquids in their hand luggage.
Since its opening in 1987, London City Airport has played a pivotal role in the regeneration of East London. Originally built on the former King George V Dock, the airport's development has mirrored the transformation of the Docklands area from disused industrial land to a thriving business and residential district. The airport's history is intertwined with London's evolution as a global financial centre, providing a vital transport link for international business travellers.
Our NewsNow feed on London City Airport delivers real-time updates on flight information, expansion developments, and the latest news affecting travellers and local communities. Whether you're a frequent flyer, aviation enthusiast, or local resident, stay informed about this dynamic and evolving transport hub at the heart of London's business district.