CAMPAIGNERS opposing the expansion of London City Airport have lost their High Court appeal.

Residents’ protest group Fight the Flights and Friends of the Earth launched the appeal against Newham Council’s decision to allow an increase in flight movements.

The airport was allowed in 2008 to increase annual flight movements from 80,000 to 120,000.

Lord Justice Pill and Mr Justice Roderick Evans, sitting in the High Court, have upheld the decision to approve expansion after a two-day hearing last year.

The airport has always said that expansion means more jobs for local people and greater prosperity for borough of Newham.

Richard Gooding, chief executive of City Airport, said: “This is great news for London City Airport and Newham and will allow us, and our partner airlines, to continue our key role in supporting the local, regional and national economies and providing new local employment and training opportunities.

“The decision also enables us to continue supporting the much needed regeneration and investment which London City Airport has helped bring to East London over the past 23 years.”

Reacting to the decision, Chair of local campaign group Fight the Flights Anne-Marie Griffin said: “We are desperately disappointed by this judgement.

“London City Airport already causes major disturbance and pollution for people living locally – the disappointment we feel at this outcome will be shared by thousands of residents across East London who are severely affected by London City Airport’s operations but were not consulted about expansion.”