IFS Cloud Cable Car
About
The IFS Cloud Cable Car, formerly known as the Emirates Air Line, is a high‑speed, 1.1‑kilometre (0.62‑mile) gondola line that links Greenwich Peninsula on the west bank of the River Thames with Royal Victoria Dock on the east bank. Opened on 28 June 2012, the line offers a 10‑minute ride across the Thames, with 36 gondolas that hold a maximum of ten passengers each. The service is operated by FirstGroup and charges a pay‑as‑you‑go fare of £6 for adults and £3 for children (50 % of the adult fare). A discounted multi‑journey ticket is available for those who make ten journeys within a twelve‑month period. The cable car provides a panoramic vista of London’s skyline, the O2 arena, and ExCeL London, making it a popular option for both commuters and tourists seeking a quick, scenic crossing of the Thames. Because of its capacity of up to 2,500 passengers per hour and its convenient terminals—near the Royal Docks freight station and the Greenpoint terminus—many visitors use it as a quick transit link to the East London rail network. The line is also a popular attraction in its own right, offering a unique experience of flying over the city’s urban landscape. The service’s original sponsorship by Emirates ended in 2022, after which IFS Cloud took over the naming rights. The cable car remains a significant part of London’s multimodal transport network, operating daily with extended hours during peak season.
Highlights
- Panoramic Views of London Skyline
- Quick 10‑Minute Crossing
- Large‑Capacity Gondolas
- Family‑Friendly Experience
- Affordable Single Fare
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Spectacular Panoramic Views
- Fast & Efficient Transport
- Family‑Friendly Environment
- Affordable Pricing
Things to consider
- Crowded During Peak Times
- Limited Operating Hours
- Weather‑Dependent Service
What people are saying
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 30 minutes