Gatwick expects that the overall number of passengers will increase to nearly 53 million by 2023
London Gatwick has announced an investment of $1.5 billion over next five years because the airport is expecting an increase in long-haul flights and an influx of passengers.
The number of travellers passing through Gatwick is expected to rise to 53 million by 2023, reflecting the airport’s aim to keep the long-haul service operations growing while attracting new carriers.
Among other projects, a new stand to handle Airbus A380 superjumbos and a new aircraft pier will be included in the investment program.
The facility is also planning to build a new domestic arrivals area and baggage reclaim in the South Terminal. The North Terminal departure lounge will get a mezzanine level extension to accommodate new restaurants.
The North Terminal will also launch a trial of biometric auto-boarding technology together extending the self-service bag drops across both terminals.
The South Terminal will undergo a hotel capacity boost and 1,200 parking spaces will be added this summer to the long stay car park.
“Gatwick is a major piece of national infrastructure, and our continued growth and ability to attract long-haul airlines is vital for the health of the UK economy, particularly in a post-Brexit world,” said Gatwick’s chief executive, Stewart Wingate.
“We are exploring ways to grow our capacity, including developing new systems and processes to handle more passengers, and considering how we use all our existing infrastructure in the future.
“By committing to spend another £1.11 billion ($1.5 billion), Gatwick can continue to grow sustainably, attract new airlines and offer more global connections, while providing an excellent service to passengers.”
Since the airport changed ownership in December 2009 the total investment figure, combined with this new five-year plan, has risen to $4.19 billion.
