Today, Thursday 13 July 2006, London City Airport put forward their suggestion to the London Assembly Environment Committee (LACE) to establish an East London Heliport.  The LAEC is undertaking an investigation into helicopter noise in London.

London City Airport was called as a witness to assist in the investigation.  It is the Airport’s view that, with the anticipated demand for helicopter movements in the future and in particular with the forthcoming Olympics, there is the need to develop a coordinated approach to manage helicopter activity.

Rob Grafton, Environment & Planning Manager for London City Airport feels the consultation is a positive move that supports the Mayor’s London Plan: “In light of the growing demand, it is important to identify the impact of increased helicopter movements operating in the London airspace and how it will affect the air traffic flow.  Research is needed to highlight and assist in the development of control regulations to ensure the efficient use of the airspace.”

The Mayor’s London Plan states Heliport Development: “The Mayor will and boroughs should consider heliport proposals in terms of the need for such facilities and their wider environmental impact. Working with boroughs in east London, the Mayor will consider the need and practicality of identifying sites in east London for an additional heliport to support London’s economy.

If further provision is necessary to support London’s economy, then this new provision should be located to the east of the City to serve it, the Isle of Dogs and the wider Thames Gateway area.”

London City Airport is willing to undertake the research, from which they can identify the location options for an East London Heliport.  Development of a suitable site will enable the Airport to introduce control measures that will allow helicopter movements over London, a controlled zone, to efficiently integrate with other air traffic in that area, and minimise the noise footprint.

Charles Buchanan, Business Development Director for London City Airport believes the Airport’s current operation provides a natural platform to manage the increase in helicopter movements: “We already manage the London City Airport airspace, which is the nearest control zone to the 2012 Olympic site. 

“We do not expect such a site to be located at London City Airport as it would, potentially, conflict with our existing business.

“We expect to see helicopter routes extended, to follow the Thames, that will then pass through our airspace.  By introducing a London City Airport Heliport, we would be able to enforce a coordinated approach, maximising the use of airspace and minimising the impact on the environment.  The feasibility study, research and site development we would fund.  Our knowledge of the area, industry and current operation enables us to take the provision of an East London Heliport forward, at the same time, introducing control measures to regulate increased helicopter movements over London.”