The Open Guide to London: the free London guide - Differences between Version 7 and Version 6 of City Airport
Contents are identical
The smallest of London's airports, however many you think there are, with a single terminal at the western end of the single 3934-foot runway (heading 10/28). Because of the existing buildings in the area, a 5.5 degree approach slope is enforced (the standard is 3 degrees), which combined with noise restrictions and the short runway severely limits the types of aircraft that are able to operate here. In particular, the only commercial jets that have received type approval are the BAe 146 (aka Avro RJ) series and the Fokker F70; the Embraer EMB135 is currently undergoing the approval process.
For this reason, most of the flights from City are fairly short. Much of the UK and western Europe is easily accessible, but you won't find transatlantic flights taking off from here.
Single-engine aircraft, helicopters and other VTOL craft, and club/leisure flying are not permitted other than in exceptional circumstances.
City is unusual in major British airports in that it is not owned or operated by BAA, the British Airports Authority. It may be for this reason, or because it's the smallest London airport, but I have found that it's by far the most pleasant London airport to fly through.
There is currently a plan to build a Jubilee Line and/or DLR station to serve the airport. At present, however, the best way to get there is either to take a Silverlink North London Line train to Silvertown Station or a DLR to Custom House Station. If you're in more of a hurry or don't feel like walking from Custom House, this station does have an interchange with the Silverlink North London Line. Alternatively, take a 69, 473 or N69 bus; the 69 and N69 go through Canning Town Station, and they all serve Plaistow Station. Avoid the "London City Airport Bus Link" which you will be offered at Canning Town Station; the 69 runs more frequently and will accept normal bus tickets. (As of May 2003, the Tube map was showing as 'under construction' the City Airport DLR extension.)
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