Opodo travel news

Gatwick calls for improved airport rail links

3 Apr 2012

London Gatwick has called for improved rail links to put the airport in a stronger position to compete with Heathrow, following a report by professional services firm Arup that outlined a vision for better integrating Gatwick with the UK's rail network.

Gatwick noted that it currently operates at about 78% capacity, meaning it has space to accommodate more routes.

The airport has recently secured new flights to Hong Kong, China, South Korea and other major destinations, but stressed that high-quality rail links are essential if the base is to attract more airlines in future.

Chief commercial officer Guy Stephenson noted that passengers' impressions of Gatwick's rail services currently lag behind those of other London airports, according to the Arup report.

'If Gatwick is to continue attracting the new routes the economy needs, its rail links must improve in quality and extent,' he added.

One of the recommendations in the recent study is to provide more direct services to the centre of London with new carriages and an onboard ticketing service.

Opodo cheap flights, hotels and car hire - let the journey begin!

Search news