The Whirlybird Guide to London: How Many Heliports Does This City Hold?
Ever dreamt of ditching the traffic and soaring into the city like a modern-day James Bond? Well, if your ride of choice is a helicopter, then London might just be your landing pad (get it?). But before you strap on your aviator sunglasses and rev up the rotors, a crucial question arises: how many places in this bustling metropolis can handle your grand entrance?
Hold on to Your Hats (Literally) - It's Not a Landing Party Paradise
Unlike fictional spy headquarters, London isn't exactly overflowing with heliports. In fact, there's only one licensed heliport: the granddaddy of them all, the Edmiston London Heliport (formerly known as Battersea Heliport). Yes, you read that right, just one. So, if you're planning a multi-stop helicopter pub crawl, you might need to rethink your itinerary.
But Wait, There's More (Kind Of!)
Now, before you ditch your helicopter dreams entirely, there are a few airfields surrounding London that also cater to helicopters. These include spots like Biggin Hill Airport, Oxford Airport, and Redhill Aerodrome. However, it's important to remember these aren't dedicated heliports. Think of them as the slightly cooler, helicopter-tolerant cousins of the official heliport.
The Secret World of Helipads
While licensed heliports are few and far between, London has a bit of a hidden helicopter scene. Hospitals, for instance, sometimes have designated helipads for emergency services. There's even a rumor (though take this with a grain of salt) that some very fancy private buildings might have rooftop helipads. But these are likely as common as unicorns in Piccadilly Circus.
So, How Do You Land Your Helicopter in London?
Unless you're royalty, a VIP, or a medical emergency, your best bet for a touchdown is the Edmiston London Heliport. Just be prepared to loosen the purse strings, as landing fees aren't exactly budget-friendly.
FAQ - Your Whirlybird Woes Solved
- How do I land my helicopter at the Edmiston London Heliport? Contact the heliport directly to make arrangements and bookings. It's not a free-for-all!
- Can I land my helicopter in my own backyard? Negative, ghost rider. Unless you have a massive private estate (and the proper permits), this is a big no-no.
- Are there any plans for more heliports in London? There's always talk, but nothing concrete. London airspace is pretty crowded as it is.
- Is it cheaper to take a helicopter or a taxi in London? Helicopter, hands down (or should we say skids down?) will cost way more. But hey, who can put a price on style? (We can, it's very expensive.)
- What happens if I land my helicopter illegally? Let's just say you won't be getting a hero's welcome. Expect hefty fines and a possible conversation with some very important people.
So there you have it, folks! The not-so-extensive guide to London's helicopter landing scene. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with a rooftop (hopefully with a view, not a helipad).
