London City Airport has outlined expansion plans that could see it eventually handle eight million passengers per year.
The airport, which is located in London’s Docklands, recently received “positive and constructive” feedback from a public consultation on a draft master plan that was drawn up last year. In light of the support received, London City is now aiming to develop over the course of two distinct time periods.
Between now and 2015, the plans will see five new aircraft stands built over King George V Dock, as well as an extension to the terminal behind the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) Station, a new aircraft hangar and a new fire station. This will allow for up to 3.5 million passengers per year.
The DLR train service will also be extended to Woolwich Arsenal and Stratford in 2009. Currently the DLR runs from the airport to Bank in the financial heart of London.
The second stage of development will run from 2015 until 2030 and will eventually allow for eight million passengers per year. More aircraft stands will be built, along with a new traffic control centre, a new aircraft taxiway and a multi-storey car park.
Richard Gooding, the airport’s chief executive, moved to reassure locals that the airport’s operating hours would remain the same in spite of the changes. “We will continue to close at night and for 24 hours on the weekend,” he said.
London City Airport had a remarkably successful year in 2006. The number of destinations served increased from 26 to 31 and in October it was purchased by a business consortium.
