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The aviation and aerospace sector plays a crucial role in London's economy and not only because it provides vital trade links and brings millions of tourists to the capital. It also provides employment for more than 25,000 people in the city and supports thousands more jobs in associated industries.
Many of the staff who work in aviation are based at Heathrow Airport, which is the busiest airport in the world. Employers include major airlines, such as British Airways, KLM and Air France, maintenance companies, the air traffic control service NATS and Heathrow Airport Holdings.
A second airport in the capital itself, London City, also provides employment opportunities for air crew, highly-skilled maintenance workers and support staff. Many London residents also work at airports outside the city's boundaries, such as Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and Southend.
Specialist aviation and aerospace recruitment agencies handle a range of permanent and contract positions in London, with a focus on licensed engineers for maintenance companies and commercial staff for airlines and airport operators. However, airlines usually recruit flight and cabin crew directly.
Salaries for aviation workers in the capital tend to be well above the national average. Licensed engineers can expect to earn between £45,000 and £55,000, while London-based aviation analysts are paid from £30,000 to £50,000.