London City Airport’s plans to increase its annual passenger cap has been granted by the government.
It goes up from 6.5 million to nine million passengers, and is allowed to operate three extra flights in the first half hour during the week
However, London City’s proposals to extend its Saturday afternoon operating hours were not accepted.
The airport currently closes at 12:30pm on Saturdays.
The airport had requested a later closing time of 6:30pm that would have enabled more choice and flexibility for passengers but this was rejected.
London City’s planning application included no increase in the permitted number of annual flights or infrastructure.
It also included a UK airport first; a commitment that only cleaner, quieter, next generation aircraft would be allowed to fly during extended operating periods.
Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, said: “While we welcome the approval to increase our passenger numbers, we are disappointed with the decision to reject our proposal to fly for longer on Saturday afternoons.”
“Rejecting our request to extend our Saturday afternoon operating hours will slow down airlines bringing cleaner, quieter next generation aircraft to the airport.”
