Air Line Northern terminal

The new Thames cable opened on Thursday June 28 – at a cost of up to £4.30 a journey.

The mile-long river crossig – called the Emirates Air Line –  links Greenwich and the Royal Docks and has the capacity to carry 2,500 people an hour in each direction, the equivalent of 30 buses.

There  had been doubts the cable car would open in time for the London Olympics. But the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, whose brain-child it is said: “This spectacular new addition to London's skyline provides a much needed new river crossing in the east of our great city.

“It opens up access to jobs in the Royal Docks enterprise zone and attract businesses and investors to a previously under exploited area.

“The Emirates Air Line is part of my plan to develop a package of new river crossings in east London and transform the surrounding area into a vibrant new metropolitan quarter that will attract new jobs, homes and enterprise.”

View of the Thames from the new cable car

Over 50 people have been employed by Mace Macro to operate the Emirates Air Line, nearly half from the local area. 

Peter Hendy London's Transport Commissioner, said:”Passengers will get to experience this unique and exciting new addition to London's transport network.

“Londoners and visitors to the capital are able to experience a direct and quick way of crossing the river while enjoying the fantastic views from the cabins. “

Initially it will operate seven days a week, from 07:00 to 21:00 Mondays to Fridays, 08:00 to 21:00 on Saturdays and 09:00 to 21:00 on Sundays.

There will be extended opening hours when there are events at the local venues, including Olympic events.
Basic adult fares will be £4.30 for cash-paying passengers, £3.20 for those using Oyster cards, and  frequent users card for ten journeys are available at £16.

For those who want the experience of an extended journey to enjoy the views of the City, which include Canary Wharf, the Thames Barrier and the Olympic Park, there will be the option to take a non-stop return journey which will will cost £6.40 with an Oyster card.