London City Airport scanners reduce queue times
Advanced security scanners have reduced queue times for passengers at London City Airport (LCY) by 50% on average since they were introduced a year ago.
Image courtesy London City Airport
In April 2023, London City Airport became the first major airport in the UK to fully deploy next generation CT security scanners for its passengers, enabling travellers to pass through security without removing laptops and liquids from their hand luggage.
Passengers flying from London City Airport can now also take up to two litres bottles and are no longer restricted by 100ml liquid bottles and can also leave large electronic items, like laptops, in their bag as they pass through security screening.
The cutting-edge technology detects prohibited items with greater accuracy and allows security staff to work more efficiently.
Alison FitzGerald, interim co-CEO and Chief Operating Officer at London City Airport, said: “We are committed to delivering the quickest, easiest and most efficient airport experience in the UK, so we’re delighted with the results of our CT scanners rollout.
“As we approach the busy summer holiday season, we’re proud to offer our passengers speedy connections from the heart of London to a range of exciting holiday destinations.”
New data shows that London City Airport is the closest airport for over half of all Londoners. Passengers can access London City Airport on the DLR service in 27 minutes from Bank, 17 minutes from Stratford, 15 minutes from Canary Wharf and 40 minutes from Covent Garden and get from the entrance to the gate in less than 10 minutes.
The findings come as London City also reports that more than half of its passengers are now travelling for leisure and to visit friends and family.
British Airways CityFlyer (BACF), the largest airline at the airport, has renewed its leisure focus with a strong summer network. This includes resuming services to a number of exciting destinations, including popular Greek islands Mykonos and Skiathos, as well as Thessaloniki, Bergerac, Split and San Sebastian. BACF will also increase capacity on key routes including Berlin and Florence.
Last week, Aurigny commenced a twice daily service to LCY from Guernsey and ITA Airways launched two daily flights to Rome. The Italian flag carrier, which has now moved its entire UK operation from London Heathrow to City Airport, has also increased its Milan service to five flights per day.
London City will soon complete a major investment programme to modernise the airport’s departure lounge, which includes more seating, two new stylish dining experiences, duty free expansion, new retail space, more washrooms and a brand-new look and feel throughout.
The CAA’s latest data shows that for 2022 and 2023 London City was ranked the most punctual airport in the London.
Last year, LCY was recognised as London’s Best Airport by Which? and cited in Time Out for being the most efficient airport in the UK.
As not all airports are introducing new security technology at the same rate, the Government advises passengers to check security requirements with their airport or airline before travelling, as 100ml liquid containers and one litre transparent bags may still be required.