London Gatwick Airport’s expansion to boost UK-China trade and connectivity

Credit: London Gatwick Airport

London Gatwick Airport’s (LGW) expansion plans could significantly enhance the UK-China connection and stimulate the economy, as demand continues to rise. Passenger volumes between Gatwick and China have surged by nearly 265% year-on-year, with almost 550,000 passengers travelling to China in 2024, up from just over 150,000 in 2023.

China’s top three carriers—Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern—already operate 33 weekly flights from Gatwick to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Zhengzhou.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said: “China accounts for 5.1% of total UK trade and is the UK’s fifth largest trading partner in 2024. As demonstrated by the Chancellor’s recent visit to China, this market is vitally important to the UK economy in terms of both inbound visitors and trade and we are pleased to offer significant connectivity between the two nations from London Gatwick.  

“We have seen huge demand for growth of these routes, from airlines and passengers. If approved, our Northern Runway plans could provide even greater opportunity to support communities the economy and the Government’s wider plans for growth, through enhanced capacity for vital long-haul services.”

The airport’s expansion is set to play a pivotal role in sustaining this growth. If approved by the Government next month, plans to bring the Northern Runway into regular use could further boost international flights, including those to China.

The £2.2 billion privately financed Northern Runway project is shovel-ready and could be operational by the end of the decade. The development is expected to create 14,000 new jobs and deliver £1 billion in economic benefits annually.