GULFSTREAM Aerospace has won approval to operate the Gulfstream IV-SP into London City Airport (LCY).
The certification allows the business-jet to serve the airport which is the closest to London's financial district. Aircraft require special approval to use LCY because of its steep glide-slope.
The GIV-SP can now be operated into the airport following a transatlantic crossing, but take-off weight restrictions at LCY mean that it could be used for the westbound trip only with a stop en route.
Two other schemes promising improved general-aviation access to London have met difficulties. Plans to develop a "civil enclave" at RAF Northolt have been dropped because of physical and operating restrictions and the proposed Gatwick-feeder airport at Redhill was refused planning permission on environmental grounds.
At Farnborough, meanwhile, several companies are understood to have bid to take over the running of the fixed-base operation. British Aerospace was unable to confirm that it is a contender.
Source: Flight International
