London City Airport joined forces with British Airways on Saturday, 11 October, to host a unique Runway Run, giving over 400 colleagues an opportunity to run down the airport’s iconic runway in support of Mind, the national mental health charity.
Runners from both organisations laced up their trainers for distances ranging from 3km to 10km, with every step contributing to raising vital funds and awareness for mental health. Participants raised an impressive £12,000 for Mind.
The event coincided with World Mental Health Day on Friday, 10 October. The run was a family-friendly occasion, welcoming participants of all ages – including the youngest, who was under six months old. One runner even completed the course in under 35 minutes, while others enjoyed a more leisurely pace, walking or running together to show their support.
British Airways’ Wellbeing Ambassador, Joe Wicks, attended the event to lead the warm-up, meet colleagues, and cheer on participants as they took to the runway.
Attendees included British Airways and London City Airport colleagues from across the businesses —engineers, cabin crew, aircraft operations, and office-based teams —as well as members of the leadership team. Colleagues from Heathrow, Gatwick, and the airline’s headquarters joined to experience the unique setting and stunning views of the City of London skyline from the runway.
Mind provides information to people experiencing mental health problems and support via helplines and local support groups across England and Wales. The charity also raises awareness, fights stigma and campaigns for improved mental health services and rights.
Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our colleagues and partners for coming together to support Mind. The energy, generosity and team spirit on the day truly reflected our shared commitment to making a positive difference for mental health.”
Keira Gray, Business Professional Apprentice at British Airways, who helped organise the event, said: “I'm immensely proud of my fellow Business Professional Apprentices who came together to turn this ambitious fundraising idea into reality. Mental health affects us all, and seeing so many colleagues from across British Airways and London City Airport unite for this cause was truly moving.”
Located just a few miles from the heart of the capital, London City Airport is the closest airport for more than half of all Londoners, with journeys from front door to departure gate taking as little as ten minutes. Over two-thirds of passengers travel to and from the airport using public transport, including the DLR. The airport is also renowned for offering one of the most spectacular flight approaches in the world, with breathtaking views of the City of London skyline.
