Calling All Tin Can Tourists: Unveiling the NOT-So-Big Plane that Takes the Cake at London City Airport
Ah, London City Airport. The little guy with a big city dream. Nestled right in the heart of the action, it's a marvel of engineering, squeezing flights in amongst the skyscrapers. But one question plagues the minds of curious flyers: what on earth is the biggest plane that can land there?
Size Does Matter (But Not Too Much)
Brace yourselves, aviation enthusiasts, because we're about to break it to you gently. London City isn't exactly known for welcoming behemoths of the sky. Its runway is shorter than your average runway enthusiast's patience (okay, maybe a slight exaggeration, but you get the idea). Think 1,508 meters (a smidge under a mile). That combined with some serious noise restrictions means giants like the Airbus A380 or the Boeing 747 need to find a different playground.
Enter the E195-E2: Big Fish in a Small Pond
So, what takes the crown for "biggest plane at London City"? Drumroll please... The Embraer E195-E2! Now, this might not sound like much to seasoned plane spotters, but for London City, it's a game-changer. Certified in late 2023, this little (well, relatively speaking) plane boasts a whopping 146 seats and a 35-meter wingspan. Don't scoff, it's a big deal in these parts!
Think You Can Blag Your Way Onto This Plane?
Think again, my friend. These flights are carefully regulated to ensure safety and noise levels. So, while you might not be rocking up in a private jet, you can definitely snag a seat on a commercial flight and experience the thrill of a (relatively) chonky plane landing in the heart of London.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered (Probably)
- How to become a pilot for planes landing at London City? Train. Train hard. Then train some more. Special certifications are required for those steep approaches.
- How to sneak a bicycle onto the E195-E2? We wouldn't recommend it. Legroom is tight, and security is tighter.
- How to convince your friend the E195-E2 is a private jet? Let's focus on healthy travel fantasies, shall we?
- How to land a plane at London City Airport in a flight simulator? There's an app for that (probably).
- How to appreciate the marvel of engineering that is London City Airport? Book a flight, grab a window seat, and marvel at the city that hugs the runway!
