London Gatwick’s expansion plans could significantly boost the economy and UK-China connectivity as demand continues to grow, with an almost 265% year-on-year rise in passenger volumes between Gatwick and China, claims the airport.
The airport saw almost 550,000 passengers travelling to China in 2024, up from more than 150,000 in 2023. China’s three largest carriers already fly from London Gatwick, with 33 services a week to China, with Air China, China Southern and China Eastern flying to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Zhengzhou.
London Gatwick plays a key role in that continued growth and if plans to bring its Northern Runway, currently a backup, into routine use are approved by the Government next month, it will allow for even more international services, including from China.
The Northern Runway project represents a £2.2 billion shovel-ready privately financed investment which could be operational by the end of the decade. The plans will create a further 14,000 jobs and generate £1 billion in economic benefits every year.
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