Gatwick ‘optimistic’ about approval for second runway

The boss of Gatwick has voiced optimism that the green light will be given for development of a second runway.

 

Chief executive Stewart Wingate was speaking as the airport reported an increase in first half profits to almost £129 million from £106 million in the same period last year.

 

The results came as passenger numbers edged up to 20 million from 19.9 million in the same period in 2024.

 

The on-time performance of flights improved to a rate of 75% from 68% following “excellent collaboration” with airlines and National Air Traffic Services (Nats). 

 

The airport also said it hit 100% of its agreed service metrics, getting passengers through security in five minutes or less 98% of the time, following a £60 million investment to become fully compliant with a Department for Transport mandate to install next generation security screening technology.

 

The results come ahead of a government decision on its northern runway planning application expected by October 27.

 

The ruling is due after transport secretary Heidi Alexander stated she was “minded to grant consent” for the airport’s plans to bring the second stand-by runway into regular operation.

 

Wingate said: “The critical final decision on our northern runway plans is just weeks away and follows a rigorous and lengthy planning process.  

 

“I remain optimistic the secretary of state will approve our privately financed, shovel-ready plans to unlock further growth for London Gatwick and the UK economy, generating new job, trade and tourism opportunities for generations to come.”

 

A £7 million refurbishment of Gatwick’s South Terminal and departure lounge is nearing completion.

 

A new 3,000 space, multi-storey car park now provides passengers with access to the North Terminal.

 

More airlines (58) are flying from the airport than ever before. A growing long-haul network included more than 50 flights a week to the Middle East, 39 to Africa and 36 to China. 

 

These include the UK’s only direct connections to emerging markets in Uganda and Kenya, with Wizz Air’s new Airbus XLR aircraft providing low cost services to Jeddah and Medina.