AIRPORT OPERATIONS

Airport Operations

Airport Operations

London City Airport is a rapidly growing dynamic business. It has not shifted from the initial vision of John Mowlem and Co., the original developer, that a City Centre Airport, designed to serve a niche business market, could reap significant financial rewards for the owner, and the airlines. In 2010, some 2.8 million passengers travelled through London City Airport to more than thirty UK and European destinations and one in the US. According to the Airport's latest data, 64% of passengers travelling through the airport are doing so for business reasons. Two-thirds are male. About 77% of passengers are on international flights with the rest using domestic services The Airport is only 6 miles east of the City, and is one of five major international airports serving the London conurbation. The other major airports serving this large market are Heathrow located 16 miles west of the City, Gatwick 25 miles to the south, Stansted 35 miles to the northeast and Luton 30 miles to the north. London City Airport is a private limited company owned by Global Infrastructure Partners. It is the only London airport developed from scratch with private capital. As well as employing 250 people itself, the Airport is property owner to a host of other companies operating at the airport, including airlines, handling agents, caterers and retailers.

Airport History

London city airports have its origins in the regeneration of London's Docklands and its early history is closely linked to that of the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC), the government agency which in the 80s and 90s took the lead in managing the regeneration of the area. It is still a key factor in the ongoing regeneration of the Royal Docks which finally closed to shipping in the early 1980s. For comprehensive information, visit our Airports History pages.

Business Strategy

The Airports's business strategy from its initial conception to the present day is to be an airports to cater specifically for the needs of the business traveller. One factor behind this decision was the large demand for international travel that London business generates. Within two hours flying time of London, live 360 million people. Some 60% of air travel to and from southeast England is to this area. A second consideration was the proximity of the Airports to the world's largest financial centre - the City of London - that is home to over 560 foreign banks, not to mention many insurance, legal and supporting services.

For airlines and consequently airportss, the yield (income per passenger), generated from passengers travelling on business class fares, is generally significantly higher than other aviation markets (e.g. charter, no-frills). This is, therefore, the most profitable market in which to operate and develop the Airports.

The service concept is for a facility where check-in is a mere ten minutes, is prompt, friendly and efficient, and where the calm atmosphere is undisturbed by large crowds and the usual confusion associated with air travel. To cater for a specialised 'niche' market in this way implies ...