Gatwick Airport Unveils Ambitious Expansion Plans for Second Runway

London Gatwick Airport has set forth a bold £2.2 billion expansion plan to convert a taxiway into a functional second runway, which could significantly enhance its standing as one of Europe’s biggest air travel centers. In 2023, the airport submitted its proposal for the Northern Runway, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander hinted at her supportive stance earlier in February, contingent on addressing noise pollution and public transport availability.

To move the expansion initiative forward, Gatwick has agreed to more stringent aircraft noise limits and proposed a comprehensive noise insulation approach for the benefit of nearby residents. Additionally, the airport aims to ensure that at least 54 percent of its passengers use public transport prior to the runway's operational start, although this goal will depend on collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Department for Transport. CEO Stewart Wingate emphasized the project’s potential to create 14,000 new jobs and generate £1 billion in annual economic benefits, all funded by the airport’s shareholders.

As part of the plan, Gatwick intends to modify the existing standby Northern Runway for smaller aircraft by adjusting its centerline northward by 12 meters to conform with global safety standards for dual runway operations. The overall £2.2 billion expansion includes essential infrastructure enhancements necessary to facilitate an increase in annual passenger capacity to 80 million.

The Transport Secretary indicated she is inclined to approve the Northern Runway project but has requested input regarding additional conditions proposed by the Planning Inspectorate. Among the required enhancements is the restoration of the Gatwick Express service, which has seen reduced operations since COVID-19. Gatwick has also suggested a backup plan involving road usage limits if the public transport target isn’t achieved. If these conditions are unmet, the airport may postpone the runway's usage until major road upgrades are completed. The final decision from the Transport Secretary is anticipated by October 27th. In tandem with the runway expansion, Gatwick is also working on a £140 million Pier 6 extension, scheduled for completion in 2027, to improve passenger flow and reduce the need for extensive bus transport.