London City Airport (LCY) is home to the only private jet centre situated within central London itself and is just 3 miles from Canary Wharf and 5 miles from the City. Due to its short runway and steep approach, London City Airport is limited to specific aircraft types with trained flight crew.
From Very Light Jets such as the Citation Mustang to Light Jets including the Citation CJ3, Super Light Jets such as the Citation XLS and Pilatus PC-24, Super Midsize Jets including the Challenger 300 and Citation Sovereign, and even larger Heavy Jets such as the Legacy 600 and Falcon 7X, we can advise on aircraft suitability and availability for all group sizes to make organising private jet travel through London City Airport a breeze.
London City Airport Approved Aircraft
The airport has a unique operating environment, including a short runway and mandatory steep approach procedures. Operators must meet the required safety, operational and regulatory standards and aircraft must be approved before flights are scheduled. London City Airport’s own approved aircraft list includes a wide range of jets, from smaller Cessna Citation models through to larger aircraft such as the Dassault Falcon 7X and Falcon 8X (pictured above), Bombardier Challenger types, Embraer Legacy aircraft and selected Gulfstream models.
Smart Aviation works with London City Airport approved operators to help match each charter request with the right aircraft solution.
London City Airport Private Jet Centre
London City Airport’s Private Jet Centre is designed around speed, discretion and efficiency. Its private aviation facilities sit close to the heart of London city and the airport facilities speedy arrival and departure checks, with dedicated facilities for private jet operators and passengers.
For clients who need to be in central London quickly, this can make London City a great alternative to airports further away from the capital. The benefit of landing closer to the city is especially clear when the schedule is tight and every minute on the ground matters.
Aircraft types for different group sizes
- Very Light Jets such as the Citation Mustang are well suited to smaller groups, short sectors and efficient point-to-point travel. For one to four passengers travelling light, a Very Light Jet can offer a cost-effective and convenient way to access London City while keeping the charter experience private and streamlined.
- Light Jets such as the Citation CJ3 provide more cabin space and range while remaining agile enough for many short runway operations. They are popular for executive travel, family trips and smaller business groups that need a comfortable cabin, flexible timings and direct access into London.
- Super Light Jets such as the Citation XLS, Phenom 300 and Pilatus PC-24 are a strong choice when passengers need additional comfort, luggage capacity or operational flexibility. The Pilatus PC-24 is particularly valued for its versatility, while the Citation XLS family remains a trusted option for corporate and leisure charter alike.
- Super Midsize Jets such as the Challenger 300 and Citation Sovereign can support larger groups, longer sectors and enhanced onboard comfort. These aircraft are often requested for senior executive travel where cabin space, performance and schedule control all matter.
- Heavy Jets such as the Legacy 600 and Falcon 7X bring greater cabin space, passenger capacity and long-range capability. For larger groups, approved Heavy Jet options can make London City Airport a practical arrival point into the capital.
Planning private jet travel through London City Airport
London City Airport’s approval requirements help ensure that aircraft and operators are suitable for its procedures, including steep approach operations. For charter operations, this means planning is essential – the aircraft type, operator approval, availability, route, passenger numbers, luggage, schedule, crew duty and handling arrangements all need to be considered together.
Using a specialist charter broker can simplify that process and we can advise on aircraft suitability and source London City-approved aircraft options quickly and easily.
For all charter enquiries, contact [email protected] or call +441293 551244
