Britain Approves London City Airport Expansion Amid Environmental Concerns

Britain's government approved a plan to expand passenger capacity at London City Airport by 2.5 million, overturning some local objections but keeping a ban on Saturday afternoon flights. While the airport views this as progress, environmental groups express concern over the precedent set.

In a significant move, Britain's government has authorized the expansion of London City Airport, increasing its capacity by another 2.5 million passengers. This decision overturns parts of a prior local-level rejection but maintains the ban on Saturday afternoon flights.

London City Airport's original plan aimed to boost its annual passenger capacity to 9 million by 2031. Key measures included extending Saturday afternoon flight hours, which was ultimately denied. According to a document on the government's website, the Secretaries of State agreed with inspectors' recommendations, leading to this mixed approval. This marks one of the first major infrastructure decisions by the Labour government, elected in July. Despite a commitment to streamline planning and spur construction, the government has had to cancel some projects due to budget cuts.

Reaction to the decision has been divided. London City Airport expressed both relief and frustration, citing concerns that the restriction on extended hours would slow the adoption of cleaner, quieter aircraft. A government spokesperson stated the aim is to balance aviation growth with environmental responsibilities. Meanwhile, Green Alliance, an environmental group, criticized the decision as setting a dangerous precedent. Conversely, local campaigners celebrated the preservation of the Saturday afternoon flight ban, originally imposed by Newham Council due to climate and noise concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)