Press Release

A recent survey has revealed overwhelming public support for BAA’s campaign to save the Gatwick Express. Eight out of ten respondents who voted via an online poll on Gatwick Airport’s website said they’d like to see the service saved*.

These results were published in the week that leading figures in the airline industry joined forces with politicians from all parties to urge the Department for Transport’s (DfT) to think again and stop its plans to scrap the high-speed, dedicated service. More than 40 MPs from across all Parties have joined together and supported a Parliamentary motion calling for the Gatwick Express to be saved The Gatwick Express service is under threat following the publication of two public consultations issued by the Department for Transport. The strategy aims to reduce peak-time overcrowding on services between Brighton and London.

In its submission to the recently concluded consultation, BAA argued that any attempt to remove or downgrade the existing Gatwick Express would be a significant retrograde step in terms of service provision, passenger’s choice and providing sustainable transport solutions. Without the Gatwick Express at the heart of the airport's integrated transport hub, it will be more difficult for the airport to retain its competitive position as a leading international gateway serving London.

The airline community have also united to show their complete commitment and have added their voice to the chorus of calls to save the Gatwick Express. Continental Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and easyJet have, amongst others, been supporters of BAA’s campaign to save the Gatwick Express.

Bob Schumacher, General Manager UK and Ireland, Continental Airlines said; “The current Gatwick Express is a fit for purpose, quality rail service and any diminution in the product will impact our business and, specifically, the perception of the airport.”

Sir Richard Branson, Chairman Virgin Atlantic added his weight to the airlines strongly held views by saying: “We need visitors to London and commuters to gain for years to come. In the run-up to the 2012 Olympics, there now needs to be real vision applied to the future of Gatwick’s transport needs. Britain’s second biggest airport will become a key arrival point for thousands of spectators and they will need the most efficient and integrated transport interchange to connect by public transport into London. The Gatwick Express needs to remain as a dedicated, non-stop and frequent service at the heart of a fresh, new gateway for an expanding airport. Without the investment, Britain’s economy will suffer and there will be no transport legacy to be proud of.”

*Results are indicative and may not reflect public opinion

Media enquiries

Notes to Editors

• For more information visit gatwickairport.com/savegatwickexpress
Reasons for the non-stop, dedicated Gatwick Express to be retained.

• The Gatwick Express is the most reliable service on the Brighton Main Line. Passengers
have confidence in the service.
• The Gatwick Express is fast and frequent. The journey time between London Victoria and
Gatwick Airport is just 30 minutes.
• The Gatwick Express keeps cars off the road, alleviates congestion around the airport, and
reduces carbon emissions.
• Mixing of rail commuters and air passengers causes discomfort delays and congestion. It
would be a backward step to mix the two.

Many major companies use the Gatwick Express service, helping to make the region an even more attractive place to do business. BAA Gatwick submitted its first response to the Strategic Rail Authority’s 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.