| 1981 | The idea of an airport for Docklands was discussed between the new London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC) chief executive and the chairman of John Mowlem & Co. plc. Later in that same year, a proposal for a city centre gateway was submitted.
|
| 1982 | A plane demonstrated the feasibility of the airport project. In the same year, a feasibility study began.
|
| 1984 | Proposals were approved for building the airport.
|
| 1985 | The Secretary of State granted his consent to the proposed plan.
|
| 1986 | The Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone for the terminal building so work could commence.
|
| 1987 | The airport was officially named by the Mayor of London. Some routes were established and a few flights actually began this year. In October of this year, The Queen officially opened the airport. 15,000 passengers used the airport during the last few weeks of the year.
|
| 1988 | A 35 minute river bus service to and from the airport and central London was begun.
|
| 1989 | Services to European cities began. Also, a runway extension was approved.
|
| 1992 | The extended runway was officially launched, along with the re-launching of London City by the Princess of Wales.
|
| 1995 | London City Airport Ltd was bought by Irish businessman Dermot Desmond.
|
| 1996 | The airport wins two industry awards.
|
| 1999 | A covered dock edge walkway, the refurbishing of the terminal business centre and the Jubilee line opening to passengers were among the improvements made this year.
|
| 2001 | The airport won the Business Travel ‘Best Business Terminus’ award for the fourth time.
|
