Story ID: 
Covid-19 Shutters London Heliport 
By: Mark Huber
Caption: The London Heliport at Battersea is closed until at least April 13. 
Word Count: 223
The Covid-19 crisis has claimed another victim: the London Heliport at Battersea is closed until at least April 13 on advice from Public Health England and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. In a statement issued Monday morning, the heliport said it has paused all operations and is “unable to provide full services until the national lockdown is lifted.” The statement added the heliport expected to resume operations in the future and that it would “consistently ensure that our dedicated clients and stakeholders are updated with any changes, as soon as clarity is provided.” 

Heliport general manager Simon Hutchins praised the performance of his team to date during the crisis. “Everyone has been working tirelessly to ensure we adhere to government guidance at all times.” As April 13 approaches, the heliport said it would issue a status update. 

The London Heliport has been in operation since 1959 and is currently owned by the real estate firm Reuben Brothers. It is the only CAA-licensed heliport, hosting nearly 12,000 operations annually, many of them connecting passengers to executive aircraft at suburban London airports at London Biggin Hill, Luton, Oxford, Farnborough, and Stansted. Located on the River Thames between Battersea and Wandsworth bridges, the heliport caters to customers requiring fast access in and out of the city. The heliport also runs its own charter brokerage.