London City Airport (LCY) has submitted an application to the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to allow operations of the Airbus A320neo at the airport.
The request seeks approval for a new flight procedure known as Required Navigation Performance with Authorization Required (RNP AR), which could modify the approach angle for aircraft at both runway ends. Currently, LCY’s steep approach requirement restricts the types of aircraft that can operate there, limiting options for airlines and passengers.
In August 2024, the UK Government approved LCY’s expansion plans to raise its annual passenger cap from 6.5 million to 9 million by 2031. This approval was granted without increasing the number of permitted flights or requiring new infrastructure.
If approved, the introduction of the A320neo could help the airport achieve its passenger capacity targets with fewer flight movements. This aligns with LCY’s commitment to economic growth, operational efficiency, and sustainability by accommodating quieter, more fuel-efficient aircraft.
As reported by Airports International, the A320neo’s potential inclusion is seen as a strategic move to enhance LCY’s leisure travel offerings. With seating capacity exceeding 180 passengers and a range of over 1,000 kilometers, the aircraft would open access to a wider network of European destinations.
Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, expressed enthusiasm for the proposal:
“The potential introduction of the A320neo aircraft at London City Airport is incredibly exciting. It would broaden the range of leisure destinations for our passengers, enable growth without increasing the number of flight movements, deliver much-needed economic growth, and accelerate refleeting to cleaner, quieter, new-generation aircraft.”
If approved by the CAA, the move could mark a significant step forward in LCY’s growth strategy, supporting both environmental goals and expanded connectivity for travelers. Photo by Aleem Yousaf, Wikimedia commons.