Gatwick Airport Takeover
An article in the Evening Standard talked about Gatwick airport being due for a £1.5 billion takeover by an investment group known as Global Infrastructure Partners. From the article I understood that the new owner will pledge to speed up the service by lowering queue times and is planning for expansion. And that this could mean lower airfares for those living around the South-East of England and London, United Kingdom. Do you think this is possible for a new owner to do?
They also mentioned something about the BAA being forced to break up its monopoly of the three major London airports. It is expected that the purchase will be finalised in December. It seems like the investment group is promising better customer service after the new Gatwick’s takeover. What do you think?
Update: 21/6/10 – Airport name changes from BAA London Gatwick to just “Gatwick”.
An airport is a wonderful place, but at the same time can be a nightmare. London airports are known for its queues, which are so long that even for rats like me to get into the cargo can be like walking through a wall of shame. As for customer service, my personal observation is that there is none, unless you’re paying extra. E.g. buying items in an airport shop or flying first class. I hope that this new Gatwick takeover makes a difference for you common passengers out there. Lowering of the recently doubled airfares and taxes would also mean a lot to me. Perhaps one day you will see a cuddly rodent sitting next to you in business class