London City update

The talk at the Aviation Club given by Tom Stoddart of BA Euroflyer did focus to some extent on London City Airport (LCY) and where it goes from here. British Airways now has a dedicated LCY page and also accepts an evening bag drop off for morning flights, perfect if you want to night-stop at the two walkable local hotels. (see in this month’s TNU) 

The airport management believe than in spite of the expected planning application rejection ultimately the slight increase in Saturday opening hours will be allowed, and likewise the overall annual passenger throughput at the airport.  

Whilst in the past the local politicians have been supportive of the airport, the current incumbents fail to appreciate the benefits it brings to the community, with the London Mayor seemingly only happy to gain political points, and has never been officially to the airport, nor Heathrow.

In the meantime LCY is suffering more than most with lack of passenger pick up from the pandemic. Stoddart cites the changing split between business and leisure travel, which now sits at 60% business and 40% leisure rather than the 70/30 split before the pandemic, as a key reason why extra weekend operations would be hugely beneficial. In June 2019 the airport was used by 461,000 travellers.  This June the figure was 325,000 (CAA stats).  The August figures are not yet out but most of the larger UK airports are reporting near or above the pre-pandemic numbers.

He also noted that LCY has the best on time performance at 67% compared with airports such as Heathrow 55%, Amsterdam 53%. Paris Charles de Gaulle and Frankfurt at 44%, that is within 15 minutes of the departure time.  

Now with the parallel taxi-way and more stands, airport congestion as such does not happen at LCY.  Air traffic control (ATC) integration is the same for all airports and passengers do appreciate the short check-in times, and quick arrival procedures. Not much walking either, but sometimes you do pay more. LCY devotees say it is the best for getting to many places in Europe.  The question asked: “is the message getting across?”

www.londoncityairport.com

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