London is the most diverse and densely populated metropolis in the United Kingdom (UK). The British capital city is home to more than 8.6 million residents, who speak over 300 languages. This historic yet modern global destination contains five major business districts, as well as some of the most expensive real estate and office spaces in the world. It boasts the second largest economy in the European Union. London is also host to the biannual “Big Four” fashion weeks, together with Milan, Paris and New York. London Fashion Week is one of the most prestigious events in the fashion industry calendar.
London is considered a cultural capital and top tourist destination. With 2,000 years of rich history to explore, the city will leave you inspired and enchanted. Popular attractions include the Tower of London, Kew Gardens, the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, St. Margaret’s Church and the historic settlement of Greenwich, all of which are on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Buckingham Palace is home to the reigning monarch of UK, Queen Elizabeth II. Other noteworthy landmarks include the St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, Trafalgar Square, and The Shard. The London Eye offers a breathtaking view of the city from the highest public vantage point in London. Visitors can explore a wealth of museums, galleries, world-renowned libraries and other cultural institutions.
Traditional British cuisines such as the full English breakfast or Sunday roast are generous in size, yet simple and wholesome. Having a diverse population means the city also has countless international eateries available, and food lovers are sure to find plenty to enjoy. London offers travelers endless possibilities in cultural, shopping and entertainment experiences, and is one of the world’s most visited and iconic cities.
UK Landing Permits
Private operators do not require a landing permit for flying into the UK. Landing permits are mandatory only for non-European (EU) registered charter flights landing in the UK, to either offload or board passengers. Permits are not required for technical landings with no in/out pax/cargo movements, or charter flights for re-positioning with no passengers on board.
Since 2014, all landing permits and revisions are being processed by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). In order make permit processing more efficient, the CAA has decreed that UK based charter operators can no longer object to charter permit requests. However the CAA has also terminated the option of overtime processing of permits. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to submit an application ahead of time. Requests will be processed only during normal hours, or at the CAA’s discretion. The operating hours for the CAA permit office are Monday to Friday, 09:00 local until 17:00 local time. The office is closed on weekends and public holidays. Lead time to acquire a landing permit depends on how far in advance the required documents and information have been submitted. The approximate lead time should be less than a week. For all the latest information relating to charter permits, please send an inquiry to operations-support@jetex.com.
Flying to London
London has one of the largest city airport systems in the world, in terms of passenger traffic. The city is served by multiple airports that can handle General Aviation (GA) flights. Choosing the best airport depends on a number of factors, including:
- Purpose of the flight
- Client’s preference
- Proximity to the location or event you are planning to attend
airport operating hours, restrictions and availabilities
In this blog, we will focus on the top three airports catering to GA, based on the above mentioned variables.
London Stansted Airport (IATA: STN, ICAO: EGSS) is located in Essex, 48km northeast of Central London. EGSS is ranked the 4th busiest airport in the UK, and is also one of the most flexible. The airport caters to GA with full ground handling services, and VIP/crew/driver lounges. Airport of Entry (AOE) and customs and immigrations is available 24 hours a day at Stansted. There are no restrictions to customs and immigration, as long as pax information is submitted in advance.
An important point to keep in mind is that although the airport is open for 24 hours, FBO and ground handling services are not always available without prior notice. Operations are available 24 hours, upon request. Slot booking is required for EGSS, however parking permits and Prior Permission Required (PPR) are not necessary. Parking can be provided for all aircraft up to B767 on the FBO’s private ramp. It is recommended that operators inform their trip support company or handling agent at the earliest opportunity in order to confirm ramp parking, PPR and slots. Long-term parking options are available with additional charges. Helicopter transfers can also be arranged (subject to availability).
London Luton Airport (IATA: LTN, ICAO: EGGW) is a major international airport located 3km East of Luton, Bedfordshire, and 47km north of Central London. Luton Airport is the 4th largest airport in London. In 2015, it was ranked as the 5th busiest airport in the UK, serving over 12.2 million passengers. EGGW is an AOE airport, with customs and immigrations available 24 hours a day. Parking permits and PPR are not required, but slot booking is mandatory.
EGGW offers full ground handling services along with ample parking space (including long stand parking). Hence, EGGW and EGSS are generally the favored options for international operators flying into London. Other airports such as EGLC and EGTK offer more limited parking space, and at higher costs.
London City Airport (IATA: LCY, ICAO: EGLC) is another major international airport, located in Royal Docks (London Borough of Newham). The airport is about 11km east of the City of London, and close to Canary Wharf (two of London’s major financial districts). London City airport is the ideally placed to serve travelers visiting these two destinations.
EGLC also caters to GA and can be used as an AOE, with regular UK customs and immigrations services. Security screening is only mandatory from aircraft that are not privately owned, and are over 10 tons. Airfield operating hours at EGLC are Monday to Friday from 06:30 to 22:00 local time, Saturdays from 06:30 to 12:30 and Sundays from 12:30 to 21:45. Slot booking is required at EGLC, whereas PPR and aircraft permits are not. London City airport is fully equipped for all ground handling services, with no restrictions on long-term aircraft parking. The on-site FBO also offers VIP and crew lounges. Operators should submit their requests for arrangements as soon as their flight details are confirmed.
Experience luxury travel with Jetex
Jetex Flight Support is a one-stop-source for your international trip planning requirements. Our service portfolio includes in-house trip planning, the arrangement of permits, fuel uplifts, ground handling, catering, and exceptional concierge services. Our dedicated staff are available 24/7 to assist with your needs. No matter where you travel, Jetex promises to take you there in style. Our staff will look after all aspects of your next trip to London. For further details, please contact Jetex on +971 4 212 4000 or email info@jetex.com.
