Swissport, an aviation services provider, has joined the Heathrow Reimagined coalition in campaigning for urgent and fundamental reform of Heathrow’s current regulatory model.
In the 15+ years since the last major review into UK aviation by the Competition Commission, Heathrow has become the world’s most expensive airport, yet the passenger experience does not match the premium it charges. Heathrow Reimagined is therefore seeking fundamental reform for the benefit of consumers, businesses and the UK economy.
The Heathrow Reimagined campaign consists of members including Heathrow Airline Operators’ Committee (AOC), Arora Group, International Airlines Group (IAG), Virgin Atlantic and American Airlines, IATA, American Express Global Business Travel (AMEX GBT) and four of the world’s leading associations representing airlines, the travel community and travel management companies.
Warwick Brady, CEO at Swissport International, said: “Britain requires cost effective infrastructure. The UK economy needs to grow on the back of London’s aviation capacity, and we are critical infrastructure enablers in making that happen.
“As the #1 global aviation services provider, we know that Heathrow’s costs don’t match the service of other major international hubs, including the airport’s resilience.
“Balancing capacity growth with competitive cost structures is the most effective way to deliver excellent service, greater innovation, and the economic output UK consumers and businesses desperately need. We look forward to supporting the campaign at this critical moment for Britain’s growth.”
A spokesperson for Heathrow Reimagined said: “Heathrow Reimagined’s shared view is that Britain deserves better from its only hub airport.
“Today’s commitment to join the campaign by Swissport, the largest operator in the UK and another major international brand and operator at Heathrow, further demonstrates the need to reimagine the airport for the benefit of passengers and UK plc alike.
“It is clear that there is still work to do to ensure that the CAA review delivers the fundamental reform that is so desperately needed.
“It is also evident that Heathrow must do better, and fundamental reform is essential in ensuring that we can drive economic growth and create a global hub fit for the future.”
