NEWS RELEASE
WASHINGTON, April 5, 2007 – The Air Transport Association (ATA), the trade association for the leading U.S. airlines, today praised the United Kingdom decision to continue nonstop express rail service between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria Station.
ATA applauded the decision, announced yesterday by U.K. Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander, to retain and expand the quarter-hour, nonstop service between Gatwick and London.
“We are delighted that the United Kingdom has recognized the importance of this dedicated, nonstop service to all airline passengers, especially those from the United States, visiting London,” said ATA President and CEO James C. May. “Passengers long have relied on the service that the Gatwick Express provides. This decision means continued convenience for our customers who frequent Gatwick Airport, while also ensuring Gatwick remains a competitive international airport.
May also commended U.K. Department for Transport Director General of Civil Aviation David McMillan and Permanent Secretary Sir David Rowlands for taking the time to discuss the importance of the Gatwick Express service.
“We had meaningful discussions that led to decisions that will bring an abundance of benefits for travelers visiting one of the world’s great cities,” said May.
In December of 2006, ATA and its member airlines submitted comments on a series of four options that the United Kingdom was considering for the future of the Gatwick Express. The airlines and other economic and tourism industry stakeholders expressed their belief that the maintenance of a full Gatwick Express service is essential for Gatwick to remain competitive internationally as an airport, and to support the city of London.
ATA members transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic.
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