London City Airport (LCY) has reported a record-breaking 4.5 million passengers in 2016, the largest in its 30-year history.

The news comes as the airport prepares to commence its £344m development plan.

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LCY's expansion in routes, facility improvements and status as the only airport in the city are said to have supported its 5% year-on-year growth compared to 2015.

London City Airport CEO Declan Collier said: “More people are travelling and making the right choice by opting for London City Airport. Our offer of a speedy and efficient passenger experience, just 6 miles from the City of London, means less time in transit and more time for the purpose of your trip.

“With 52% of all passengers travelling for business, the 5% year-on-year growth demonstrates that the appetite for business travel to and from London remains strong despite the unpredictable political climate, as we prepare to expand the airport in 2017 to meet increasing demand.”

"The 5% year-on-year growth demonstrates that the appetite for business travel to and from London remains strong despite the unpredictable political climate."

Besides the addition of six new routes, LCY was also awarded the ‘Best Regional Airport in the World 2016’ by the industry body the Centre for Aviation (CAPA).

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Last year, the UK Government approved planning permission for the £344m City Airport Development Programme (CADP).

The development will allow the airport to transport 6.5 million passengers by 2025. It will also help in adding 29,000 extra flights per year.

The redevelopment plan comprises seven new aircraft stands, as well as a parallel taxiway to maximise runway capacity with a terminal extension.

About ten commercial airlines operate in the airport, carrying passengers to approximately 50 domestic, European and US destinations.

Image: An aircraft takes off from London City Airport. Photo: courtesy of Ben Walsh / LCY.

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