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Airport operator BAA has announced that it has put London Gatwick up for sale.

The company made the decision following an investigation by the Competition Commission which concluded that BAA's monopoly over British airports should be broken up with the sale of three of its London bases.

Andy Flower, managing director of London Gatwick, described the announcement as a 'landmark moment' in the airport's history and reassured passengers that it would be 'business as usual' at the hub.

'The airport will continue to play a vital role in the community, supporting the local, regional and national economies,' Mr Flower said.

'We have exciting plans in place to revitalise the airport and transform the passenger experience over the next five years and a strong team focused on making Gatwick a great airport. It is business as usual at Gatwick.'

The companies thought to be interested in bidding for Gatwick include the Manchester Airport Group and Australian bank Macquarie, while Virgin Atlantic has also indicated that it could bid as part of a consortium.

Gatwick airport handles some 35m passengers a year. Its most popular international destinations are Malaga, Palma, Alicante, Tenerife and Orlando.

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