The only airport in central London had its busiest ever month, week and day in May, peaking at 15,697 passengers on Friday 23rd to total 315,514 - the highest monthly figure in its 26 year history.

The figures represent an increase of almost 20 per cent compared to May 2012.

Matthew Hall, chief commercial officer, London City Airport said: “These record-breaking numbers, combined with consistently higher load factors, demonstrate real success in the development of the route network at LCY.

“With several new routes having launched already this year and additional rotations on established routes, we have achieved a significant increase in passenger numbers, compared to relatively static growth at other airports in the south-east.

“We will continue to work with our airline partners to ensure we deliver the schedule that our passengers want, as well as maintaining and improving the business-class experience that people enjoy when travelling through London City Airport.”

New routes launched from LCY in 2013 include Dresden and Paderborn with CityJet, Kristiansand with Flynonstop and Rome with Alitalia, as well as increased frequencies from Alitalia and Luxair.