UK Aviation Minister visits London City Airport and new CEO Andy Cliffe

London City Airport yesterday set out further detail on how it plans to grow to 9 million passengers a year, as Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister, Keir Mather, made his first official visit to a London airport since taking up the role.

The visit comes as the airport moves into the delivery phase of its growth programme, following government approval in 2024 to increase annual passenger capacity without increasing flight movements.

Much of this growth could be unlocked by enabling larger, more fuel‑efficient aircraft that can carry more passengers on each flight.

During the tour, new CEO Andy Cliffe, in his first week in post, welcomed the Minister alongside James Asser, MP for West Ham and Beckton, meeting frontline colleagues from airfield operations, customer services, ramp teams and the airport fire service.

The visit also highlighted the airport’s unique Central London operating environment in the Royal Docks, where even maritime movements sometimes have to be closely co-ordinated with air traffic.

Cliffe said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Aviation Minister to London City Airport in my first week as CEO. I was proud to showcase the exceptional work of our colleagues and outline how we will grow passenger capacity while continuing to deliver the fast, reliable and leading customer experience that our travellers value.”

Central to the airport’s growth plans is the introduction of larger, more modern aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo, which offer substantially lower carbon emissions and noise footprints.

Cliffe continued: “These plans will unlock new routes and more choice from London’s most convenient airport, support over 4,000 direct and indirect jobs in east London, and strengthen connectivity in support of the government’s wider economic growth ambitions.”

James Asser, MP for West Ham and Beckton, added: “London City Airport is Newham’s largest private sector employer and a major contributor to our local economy.

“Yesterday’s visit was a welcome chance to see the team again and to show the Minister the wide range of specialist roles available across the airport and the investments being made in safety, sustainability, and modern infrastructure.

“I was particularly encouraged by the commitment to reducing noise, supporting local jobs and expanding skills programmes for young people in our community.

“As the airport progresses its plans for sustainable growth, it is vital that residents continue to benefit, and I look forward to ongoing engagement with LCY on behalf of the people of West Ham and Beckton.”