Second Gatwick runway idea good for Guernsey travellers, say airlines

A second runway at Gatwick would make travel cheaper and quicker for islanders going abroad, according to airlines.

Their comments followed news that companies bidding to buy Britain's second-largest airport have been secretly discussing plans to build a second landing strip.

It was the second boost for air travellers in two days after airlines suggested BAA's sale of three UK airports could increase competition and drive down fares.

Flybe spokesman Niall Duffy said travellers could expect simpler trips abroad if the second runway were built because they would not have to travel between Gatwick and Heathrow.

'It would unquestionably save them money and they won't have to trek through the hell that is Heathrow,' he said. He said Flybe was in favour of the idea.

Aurigny commercial director Malcolm Coupar doubted whether the extra runway would affect the island very much in terms of increasing services to and from Gatwick but agreed it could improve international travel.