Friday, 30 Jul 2010
You are here:
Learn About Gatwick Airport In London
Written by Mark Walters   
Tuesday, 09 March 2010 08:26
Gatwick airport is one of the most famous airports in the United Kingdom and Europe as a whole. It is the 8th largest (by passenger traffic) airport in Europe, and is one of the top 30 busiest airports in the world. Gatwick also holds the record as the busiest single-runway airport in the world, constantly handling traffic that other airports divide over multiple runways.
by MarkWalters


Gatwick airport is London's second biggest airport. It is the 8th largest (by passenger traffic) airport in Europe, and is one of the top 30 busiest airports in the world. Gatwick also holds the record as the busiest single-runway airport in the world, constantly handling traffic that other airports divide over multiple runways.

Though it is a relatively old airport, it has been regularly modernized, and just recently they announced a further one billion pound investment would be made in improving their infrastructure. Airport officials remain firmly convinced that this investment might even help them surpass the famous Heathrow in terms of amenities and passenger accessibility, and demonstrate the airport's commitment to continued quality.

With a long history as a major hub of air travel, Gatwick has served as a gateway between London and the rest of the world for millions of people. However even with all the things Gatwick is famous for, there are just as many elements of its history that are not quite as evident, and can be a joy for the inquisitive historian to discover.

#1 - Advances in Architecture

Gatwick unveiled the world's first circular airport terminal (named the 'Beehive') in 1936. Though they are commonplace these days, it was an extraordinary achievement for the time. There was a rail link directly to the terminal, and for the first time passengers could directly board their aircraft instead of having to travel across the runway on foot or by bus.

#2 - Private Fliers

Gatwick was not originally build to be a public airport. In its early years, it was used as a home for a private flying club. The flying club that used it, which was the Surrey Aero Club, became so popular though, and brought so much attention to the airport, that it was soon granted a commercial flying license, which meant that members of the public could fly in and out of it.

#3 - The Queen Of England

Gatwick has been graced on two separate occasions with a Royal presence at important opening ceremonies. In 1956 the airport temporarily closed in order to undergo a major redevelopment, and it was Queen Elizabeth II who oversaw the ceremonies in 1958. Then, thirty years later, the Queen and Prince Phillip were also present for the opening of the new North Terminal as well.

#4 - The Blitz

During the second World War, all available resources had to be turned toward keeping Britain safe from the German Luftwaffe. Planes that were based at and flew from Gatwick airport played a pivotal role in Britain's success in winning the battle of the skies, which ultimately led to the success of the Allies as a whole.

About the Author: