Press Release
BAA Gatwick says dedicated approach is on track for success
09 October 2006
BAA Gatwick says dedicated approach is on track for success
09 October 2006
BAA Gatwick is encouraged by the Department for Transport’s announcement today and is glad that it recognises the importance of a maintaining a high-frequency, high-quality train service between Gatwick Airport and London.
BAA Gatwick stresses the need for this service to be dedicated, fast, frequent, and most importantly non-stop between London and Gatwick. The Department for Transport’s new consultation launched today gives BAA Gatwick the opportunity to work with leading airlines of the world, the business community and key partners to strengthen the case for dedicated express services. This will also recognise the need to improve performance and provide additional capacity for commuters on the Brighton to London Main Line.
Paul Griffiths, Managing Director, BAA Gatwick commented: “We can see a light at the end of the tunnel, as the Government has listened to the aviation community’s needs regarding the provision of a high quality, dedicated airport service. We have always advocated the protection of this essential, award winning transport link between London and our airport. Seven out of every ten rail passengers travelling from Gatwick Station to London Victoria choose to travel on the Gatwick Express. This illustrates the success and importance of a
quality rail service which supports all passengers needs, provides an efficient public transport network for the south east region and protects the environment by minimising the number of journeys by car.
Together with our global airlines at Gatwick, we have been vociferous in our support for a dedicated, high quality, non-stop service between London and Gatwick. To change radically the nature of the world’s pioneer and the UK’s favourite train service would be a major blow for customers, airlines, the local community and Gatwick Airport. Successful airports are vital to our economy – attracting business and tourism into the UK.
Getting to and from the airport quickly, comfortably and easily is a key part of this success.”
Media enquiries :
Andrew McCallum, Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Tel: +44 (0)7827 983965
Email: andrew.mccallum@gatwickairport.com
Notes to Editors
BAA Gatwick submitted its first response to the Strategic Rail Authority’s (SRA) consultation on the Brighton Main Line Route Utilisation Study entitled “Murder of the Gatwick Express” in December 2004. Since then there has been on-going dialogue between BAA and the Department for Transport’s Rail Division.
