London City – The Forbidden Land in Pictures
London City Airport is on the list of my aviation projects and dreams. I love this airport, because of its a time saver, because it has a unique implantation, and because of the unique scenery it offers. However, this is for me kind of a Forbidden Land, because of all the constraints.
No private pilot can land there. No single engine (even single engine turbine) can land there. No private traffic can use this airport. All pilots operating there need to go through a special training. As I don’t want a job as professional turbine pilot, the chances for me to land there otherwise than as an airline passengers are low, if not inexistant. By the way, if you’re working for BAA / CAA and can arrange an exception (even a single ILS approach with go-around will do), or for an operator and can arrange a jumpseat flight, you’re welcome.
Before someone makes it possible for me to go there, here are some pictures, found on airliners.net. Click on them to see the full size version on airliners.net.
On this first photo, taken on final 28 on the glide path – it seems high, but look at the PAPI – one can see the construction works left of threshold. Note that the only possible way for departing aircraft is to backtrack ruwnay, and this seriously reduces the airport capacity.
The second photo, taken in 2008, shows the reason for these works: a partial parallel taxiway has been built. It is still necessary to back-track, but two planes can depart rather quickly one behind the other, and that shortly after a landing, making the runway capacity higher.
Finally, a photo taken on final for runway 10. It was also taken before the construction of the floating taxiway. The approach angle is also impressive, but the departure (go-around) path is much clearer than on runway 28…
PS: simple visit of the tower would be fine as well 
5 Comments, Comment or Ping
Jess Sightler
Those are some nice pictures. That really reminds me of the old Meigs field (sadly destroyed by Daley) that I had always wished to fly into. At least it still exists in London, if not readily accessible to average pilots.
Jun 30th, 2008
PlasticPilot
An interesting question comes out of your comment Jess: what’s an average pilot ? I have no stats on numbers of pilots, but if we calculate by the average number of hours flown, the average pilot is probably more someone with a much more formal suit that what you and I wear. You know, the kind with golden stripes on the shoulders.
So technically, the average pilot still has access to London City.
Jun 30th, 2008
Sylvia
Ohhh, if you do get invited to go, take me with you!
I landed (badly!) at Luton once, that was a serious highlight! This would be incredible.
Jul 1st, 2008
PlasticPilot
@Sylvia: if I get invited and a seat is free, you’ll have it. But I did not get any answer yet
Jul 1st, 2008
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