River Thames cable car hailed 'stunning' at launch

Boris Johnson takes a ride on the new Emirates Air Line. Credit: PA Wire

The UK's first urban cable car service, spanning the River Thames in London, was hailed a "stunning piece of engineering" as it officially opened to the public.

The Emirates Air Line, a £44 million cable car system spanning the Thames in London, was officially launched by London mayor Boris Johnson.

Ahead of the public opening, Mr Johnson rode one of the cable cars, which will whisk passengers almost 300ft above the river between Greenwich, by the 02 Arena in south London, and the Royal Docks, by the ExCel exhibition centre to the north.

The system can carry up to 2,500 people per hour in each direction and will operate every day. Known as the Emirates Air Line, the facility will cost £3.20 for a single fare for those using Oyster cards, while adults paying by cash will have to fork out £4.30.

There will also be special "frequent flyer" deals for regular users.

The cable car is known as the Emirates Air Line. Credit: PA Wire

Emerging at Greenwich after his crossing, Mr Johnson said: "Get on this cable car immediately. It's beautiful, worth every penny and a stunning piece of engineering."

He added that the new system would provide a much-needed connection across the Thames and become "a must-see destination in its own right".