Amex GBT adds weight to Heathrow Reimagined campaign

American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) has added its weight to an industry campaign group calling for a “fundamental” review into the way Heathrow is regulated.

Other industry bodies already part of Heathrow Reimagined alongside leading airlines include the Advantage Travel Partnership, Business Travel Association, Iata, World Travel & Tourism Council and the Board of Airline Representatives in the UK.  

Heathrow Reimagined is currently engaging with the Civil Aviation Authority about potential solutions, without delaying the government’s proposed third runway expansion timetable, following years of what it describes as “declining passenger experience and ageing infrastructure” at the airport. 

The regulatory reform options “draw insights from other international models, although it is likely Heathrow will need a bespoke solution to be effective”.

A Heathrow Reimagined spokesperson said: “This support from Amex GBT is both a demonstration of the campaign’s continued momentum across the aviation, business and travel industries, and also another clear signal from the international community and customers of Heathrow that the time to act is now.”

Amex GBT president Andrew Crawley said: “To deliver on its growth agenda, the UK requires a world class hub airport. 

“For too long, the existing regulatory model has incentivised inefficient spend leaving businesses paying more for less. 

“We look forward to working with Heathrow Reimagined to improve traveller experience and unlock the significant potential Heathrow presents for the global business travel community. 

“Without action now, we risk prices rising for businesses for decades to come.”

The Heathrow Reimagined campaign continues to “actively engage” with the wider industry and government to achieve its primary objective of fundamental reform. 

Carriers supporting the group include British Airways owner IAG, American Airlines and Virgin Atlantic.