Garuda exit shows that only a hub can sustain long-haul routes

Garuda has chosen to use Amsterdam Schiphol as its European base rather than operate from a point-to-point airport in the UK. Airlines that have been unable to access slots at Heathrow have been unable to sustain long-haul flights at Gatwick. Now those routes are being lost to the Netherlands and other competing European economies.

Direct long-haul flights are critical to supporting trade and growth. UK businesses trade 20 times more with emerging markets that have daily flights than those with less frequent or no direct service.

Colin Matthews, Chief Executive of Heathrow Airport said:

“A single hub airport is the only way to connect the UK to the fastest growing economies because it’s the only model that can sustain long-haul flights.

“Heathrow doesn’t oppose a second runway at Gatwick which serves predominantly short haul, low cost airlines. But new capacity at Gatwick will not provide the hub capacity needed by network airlines to put on new long haul routes.

“For the UK to compete in the global race for jobs and growth we need a hub airport with direct long-haul connections to the world’s fastest growing economies.”

Long-haul airlines that have withdrawn all flights from Gatwick since 2008:

Asia House, supported by Heathrow, has produced a series of guides in collaboration with trade bodies, associations and British Embassies. They offer expert tips on business culture, language and market opportunities in eight Asian economies. They also provide first-hand accounts from British businesses which have succeeded in the region.

Asia House – Navigating Asian Markets: A quick guide to doing business in Indonesia.