New-look Gatwick on show

Images of how Gatwick might look with a new runway were issued by the airport on Friday as part of its campaign for expansion under aviation-capacity plans for the South East.

The issue was back on the table last week after the government against expectations again failed to make a decision in the divisive debate (see story this issue and COMMENT).

Gatwick’s response was to distribute new broadcast-quality aerial footage of the proposed site for its development and re-issued animations and CGIs of Sir Terry Farrell’s designs for an expanded airport.

The airport also pointed out a development site had been safeguarded since 2006 for the specific purpose of building a second runway – and was one of the factors that helps to make its expansion scheme low risk and deliverable in just 10 years.

Meanwhile, one airport customer, Norwegian Air, said last week it would push ahead with plans to increase the number of flights it offers out of Gatwick even if the rival expansion bid at Heathrow wins the battle for government backing.

A spokesman said the airline’s position was unchanged “whatever the final decision” from when it announced it would increase its existing capacity by 50 long-haul B787 Dreamliners at the airport.

www.gatwickairport.com

www.norwegian.com

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