While airports worldwide suffer from falling passenger numbers as the economic downturn bites London City, which serves the UK capital's business community, set new records in 2008.

Based in London's Docklands area the airport handled 3.3 million passengers last year, a 12 percent rise on the previous twelve months. In December there was still a 10 percent growth in passengers despite the deepening financial gloom.

London City's GBP50 million pound (USD$75.3 million) investment in facilities was quoted by chief executive Richard Gooding as playing a leading role in the airport's success.

"With a significant investment in facilities, a core emphasis on passenger experience and high service standards, 2008 has proved to be the most successful ever with another record year in terms of passenger numbers," he said.

"We remain cautious about 2009's prospects until stability returns to the financial services industry and the wider economy. Nevertheless the continued commitment of our partner airlines and our many regular users gives us continued confidence in the longer term.

The first transatlantic route, between London City and New York, is scheduled to start in the autumn this year when British Airways launches a twice daily, all-business class service.