London Gatwick announced today that it has delivered record passenger growth, increasing its share of traffic in the London market, and achieving a profit.

The airport achieved strong results by competing vigorously with the other London airports, continuing to attract new airlines - serving both emerging and established markets - and increasing its share in the business travel market. Gatwick also saw growth with its existing carriers and continued to invest in new facilities to improve the passenger experience.

It was also the year that Gatwick was shortlisted by the Airports Commission for the UK’s next new runway. The airport could deliver a new runway more quickly, at a lower cost and with far less environmental impact than other options. It would also deliver greater economic benefits and more connections.

More recently, Gatwick welcomed news that Govia has been awarded the new Thameslink franchise, which will transform rail services to the airport with improved, high quality trains and a doubling of rail capacity at Gatwick by 2018.

Stewart Wingate, CEO of London Gatwick, said: “Gatwick’s record performance and growth to around 36 million passengers this year demonstrates how we are successfully competing in the London market and why we are best-placed to deliver the UK’s next new runway. Airlines and passengers are increasingly choosing to fly from Gatwick and this growth is expected to continue. And despite getting busier and handling growing numbers of passengers, we remain the top London airport for passenger satisfaction.

“Expansion at Gatwick would ensure London can effectively compete with its European neighbours and provide essential air links that the UK needs to both established and emerging markets.

“A two runway Gatwick would provide London and the UK with two world class airports and enable businesses to thrive and the economy to grow. It is, without a doubt, the obvious solution to creating the best future outcome for airlines, passengers and UK Plc, enabling more people to fly each year to the widest range of short and long haul destinations on more competitively priced fares.”