In June 1982 Captain Harry Gee flew the first test flight in the Royal Docks, successfully landing his turboprop aircraft in nearby Heron Quays. This helped to prove that the semi-derelict former industrial area could be suitable for a new city airport.

London City Airport opened in 1987, occupying a relatively narrow strip of land between Royal Albert and King George V Docks. With a runway 1,500m long, only relatively small planes are permitted to land here. This area had once been used for loading, unloading and storing goods brought in by ship from around the globe. With the opening of the airport, North Woolwich is therefore once again a gateway to the world.