This scenario I created using Custom MFD to place a space shuttle ready for launch at London City airport.
To launch apply full power until in orbit; once off the landing pad, adjust angle of cimb slightly so shuttle is at good ground speed once in orbit and also so the fuel tanks land on water.
Press 'J' jettison the fuel tanks once in orbit i.e. when the classical music starts to play. The small fuel tanks may jettison automatically however.