The bosses of Birmingham airport and Gatwick have joined forces to call on the Airports Commission to ensure any new runway developments promote competition and choice across the UK.
The two airport chief executives stood side-by-side at the Conservative Party conference to deliver the message.
Speaking after the fringe event, Birmingham airport chief executive Paul Kehoe said: “Passengers and businesses tell us they want to fly direct. With our region attracting over a quarter of the UK’s foreign direct investment, we are clear that the answer is a network of national long-haul airports, plugging all regions into global growth opportunities.
“Growth at Gatwick will support demand for greater connectivity, improving value for passengers flying from the southeast and supporting the continued growth of our regions.”
Gatwick chief executive Stewart Wingate added: “Competition between the UK’s airports is essential for delivering choice for passengers, businesses and investors across the country.
“By expanding Gatwick we can harness the strength of the country’s network of great airports, delivering new southeast capacity and supporting the growth of connectivity across the UK.
“This is why we are delighted that Birmingham airport is supporting our case for a second runway.”