Gatwick cargo may double with expansion - airport

If approved, the plans could bring an additional 60,000 flights per year into the airport

Cargo coming into Gatwick could double if plans for expansion are approved, the airport has said.

The West Sussex airport has submitted plans to bring its northern runway, normally a taxiway, into regular use for routine flights.

An increase in cargo imports could generate 35,000 new jobs and add £2bn to the economy every year, the airport said.

Last month, a group of MPs called on the government to delay its decision on the expansion until noise levels were monitored.

A final decision on the expansion is expected by 27 February.

If approved, the plans could bring an additional 60,000 flights per year into the airport.

The additional flights could see an increase to 161,500 tonnes of cargo by 2038 – more than double levels in 2019, the airport said.

Gatwick Airport has submitted plans to bring its northern runway into regular use

Stewart Wingate, the airport's chief executive, said: "Many businesses and individuals across the South East are supported by having London Gatwick on their doorstep.

"We are confident that by bringing our existing northern runway into regular use, we'll continue to grow our global connections and drive growth for the region's people and businesses."

If approved, employment would increase to 167,500 jobs in 2038, 35,500 more than without the development, the airport added.

Karim Fatehi OBE, chief executive at London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the use of the northern runway could double international trade passing through the airport.

"There is a £2bn a year economic boost within our grasp if we bring Gatwick's northern runway into regular use," he said.

"Opening up the runway would create opportunities for businesses to expand their operations overseas, and to access growing markets in the USA, Asia and the Middle East."