Transport Canada and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have awarded the Bombardier CS100 aircraft its steep approach certifications. The aircraft successfully completed a flight test programme to validate its capability to operate at airports such as London City (LCY) Airport.

Launch customer Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) will be the first airline to operate the C Series at LCY Airport, starting later this year.

The airport sees the C Series as a potential game-changer, unlocking new possibilities for non-stop services to destinations including the east coast of the USA, Russia, West Africa and the Middle East.

Successful validation flights at LCY Airport a few weeks ago were followed by a demonstration flight from LCY to John F. Kennedy Airport — the first direct transatlantic flight by a commercial aircraft from LCY Airport.

British Airways has been operating an all-business 32-seat A318 service out of LCY to JFK since 2009, but this “direct” flight involves a stopover in Shannon, Ireland.