Approach to London City
 

I have flown from EDI to London City on several occaisons, with KLM-UK when they still operated the route, on a BAe 146. On every occaison the descent on final approach into London City seemed to be much steeper comapred with the landing at EDI on the return leg of the journey. Approach seemed to be with the nose quite steeply down, with the aircraft flaring just before touch down. What is the particular reason for this, and is it a practice unique to LCY or is it operated at other airports also? :confused:

The approach angle of the ILS glidepath at EGLC is 5.5 degrees, equating to a descent rate of 580ft per mile. This is due to terrain clearance issues, and also helps to reduce noise nuisance on the ground. Aircraft using the airport have to be certified in their operations manuals to use such a steep glidepath. Glidepaths are usually set at 3 or 3.5 degrees.