London's new ski-resort-style cable car system

These are the first few images of London's ski-resort-style cable car, designed to alleviate pressure on London's road networks during the Olympics.

The project, which is estimated to have cost in the region of £60m, will offer its customers panoramic views of the capital during the ride.

The gondola will carry visitors from the 02 Arena on the south bank of the Thames... Credit: Lewis Whyld/PA Wire
...to the ExCel exhibition centre on the river's north eastern side. Credit: Lewis Whyld/PA Wire

Sponsored by airline Emirates, the project is now called... the Emirates Air Line.

Transport for London has created a video demonstration of how the gondola will operate:

TfL says:

From summer 2012, the cable car will allow pedestrians, wheelchair users and cyclists to cross the river Thames within five minutes, from terminals at Emirates Greenwich Peninsula and Emirates Royal Docks.

The crossing will encourage regeneration in the area and provide access to visitor attractions.