UK government approves London City Airport passenger Cap Increase, rejects Saturday extension

Credit: London City Airport

The UK government has announced that it has approved London City Airport’s request to raise its annual passenger cap from 6.5 million to nine million, alongside a plan to add three extra flights in the first half hour of operations on weekdays. The decision marks a significant step for the airport as it seeks to accommodate growing passenger demand.

However, the government did not grant approval for the airport’s proposal to extend its Saturday operating hours. Currently, London City Airport closes at 12:30 on Saturdays. The airport had sought permission to remain open until 18:30, which it argued would offer passengers greater flexibility and choice. Despite this setback, the airport’s application did not propose an increase in the total number of annual flights or new infrastructure developments.

A notable aspect of the airport’s planning application was its commitment to allow only cleaner, quieter, next-generation aircraft to operate during any extended hours, a first for a UK airport.

Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, said: “While we welcome the approval to increase our passenger numbers, we are disappointed with the government’s decision to reject our proposal to fly from 12:30 to 18:30 on Saturday afternoons.

“As the government has recognised in its decision, rejecting our request to extend our Saturday afternoon operating hours will slow down airlines bringing cleaner, quieter next generation aircraft to the airport. Local residents would have had the added benefit of these aircraft operating at the airport throughout the week, not just in the extended operating hours.”

The approval to increase the passenger cap reflects the government’s recognition of the airport’s role in supporting economic growth and connectivity, but the rejection of extended Saturday hours suggests a careful balance between expansion and the concerns of the local community.