London City Airport Gets Capacity Expansion Approval

DALLAS — London City Airport (LCY) has been granted permission to increase its annual passenger capacity by 9 million by adding three additional midweek flights daily. This decision came after the airport successfully appealed to extend its operating hours, although the extension does not apply to weekends.

The airport, located near several residential areas in London, had initially requested to extend its Saturday operating hours from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. to provide more flexibility for passengers.

However, the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Ministry of Housing denied this request, citing concerns about potential noise impacts on local residents. Instead, the authorities approved the airport's plan to increase early morning flights on weekdays, allowing three more daily flights. 

As per an airport-technology.com report, the decision was based on the airport's commitment to using quieter, next-generation aircraft, which are expected to minimize noise disturbances. The departments concluded that the additional early flights would not significantly impact noise levels, especially with the enhanced sound insulation measures.

Despite this approval, the airport's CEO, Alison FitzGerald, expressed deep disappointment over the rejection of the Saturday extension. She noted that extending Saturday operations would have facilitated the introduction of cleaner, quieter aircraft throughout the week, benefiting both passengers and local residents.

Before the additional flights can commence, London City Airport must first construct temporary noise barriers, which permanent structures will eventually replace. While the expansion marks a significant step forward for the airport, the limitations on weekend operations highlight the ongoing balance between growth and community impact.