Oct 07, 2011 at 01:25 PM
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This Airline Just Spent $56 Million To Rename A Cable Car

London Mayor Boris Johnson has cut another major public-private partnership, today announcing that Emirates will spend £36 million to rename London's first new urban cable car 'Emirates Air Line.' Set to open in summer 2012, the aerial car will allow up to 5,000 passengers to cross the Thames River each hour. The Emirates Air Line will connect north and south London, travelling between two new stations set to also be named after the airline as part of the deal - Emirates Greenwich Peninsula and Emirates Royal Docks.


"As one of the world's most innovative airlines, the link with this new form of air travel in London is a perfect fit for us," said Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline. 'We are always looking for new ways to support the communities we serve and what better way than to bring this ground-breaking transport scheme to residents and visitors alike."

As part of the deal, The Emirates Air Line will be featured on the iconic Tube map and be included in Transport for London's (TfL's) travel information. The airline will also have the opportunity to work with TfL to create a joint logo.

"This multi-million pound deal is tremendous news for London, helping us to deliver a new addition to the city's skyline. Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, commented. "The Emirates Air Line will be an exciting and innovative mode of transport easing travel for thousands and offering spectacular bird's eye vistas of our majestic Thames."

The cable car is expected to be ready just in time for the 2012 Summer Olympics, linking two Olympic venues: 02 arena and the ExCel exhibition centre. British Airways, which competes with Emirates on some routes, is a Tier One partner of the games.

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