Government approves London Gatwick Airport expansion with focus on jobs, sustainable fuel, and improved transport links

The government’s approval for London Gatwick Airport’s (LGW) expansion, including the routine use of its emergency runway, has been welcomed by Unite, the union representing 7,000 workers at the airport. Unite emphasised the need for the expansion to deliver highly skilled, well-paid, unionised jobs and improved staff facilities. The union also renewed its call for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production at Grangemouth to offset carbon emissions and meet net-zero targets.

Unite’s response to London Gatwick Airports expansion 

Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite welcomes the expansion of Gatwick, but it must come with guarantees of well-paid, unionised jobs and proper facilities for workers. It is urgent that we ensure domestic SAF production to offset carbon emissions and meet government net-zero targets. Transitioning Grangemouth refinery to SAF production would secure the fuel we need while protecting thousands of jobs.”

The expansion is projected to boost the UK economy by £1 billion annually and create 14,000 jobs nationwide. Unite, LGW’s major union, recently secured an average 8.3% pay rise for over 4,600 workers employed by 11 companies in 2024. Dominic Rothwell, Unite’s regional coordinating officer, highlighted the need for investment in staff facilities and transport planning to accommodate the influx of workers.

The Transport Secretary’s decision to approve LGW’s expansion marks a significant milestone in enhancing UK connectivity, with 2024 air traffic already 10.4% above 2023 levels and nearly 4% higher than pre-pandemic figures. The expansion will improve access to global markets like North America, Asia, and the Middle East, fostering international collaboration and economic growth.

However, better coordination of the UK’s transport infrastructure is essential. For example, the lack of a direct rail link between LGW and LHR forces passengers onto congested roads. The government must also ensure balanced investment across regional airports to ensure nationwide economic benefits, rather than focusing solely on London and the Southeast.

Clive Wratten, CEO of the Business Travel Association, regarding the statement said:

“The Transport Secretary’s decision to approve the expansion of Gatwick Airport by bringing its emergency runway into routine use is yet another significant milestone in enhancing the UK’s connectivity. With the latest data showing that the total full-year air traffic in 2024 rose 10.4% compared to 2023 – almost 4% above pre-pandemic levels – there is a strong appetite for travel.¹  

This expansion will offer businesses increased access to high-value global markets such as North America, Asia and the Middle East, facilitating international collaborations.”

¹IATA Air Passenger Market Analysis 2024

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