“London Gatwick is a key catalyst for regional growth” – Chief Executive highlights airport’s role in regional prosperity

• London Gatwick’s Chief Executive says the airport is central to growth in the South East
• The airport recently led in launching the Gatwick Region Airport Economic Zone, welcomed new long-haul routes and continues to champion local produce
• This week, London Gatwick announced the launch of 29 new services from major airline Jet2, which will create more than 300 jobs 

“London Gatwick is not only a gateway to the world – it’s a key catalyst for regional growth.” That was the message from London Gatwick’s Chief Executive, Pierre-Hugues Schmit, speaking at the London Gatwick Economic Summit.

“From unlocking new trade routes to powering innovation and job creation, London Gatwick is proud to play a key role in the region’s prosperity,” Pierre-Hugues Schmit said. “Our annual Economic Summit has been a brilliant opportunity to connect with key players across the region so we can continue to collaborate for long-term success.”

The airport’s impact over the past year has been felt across sectors – from the launch of the Gatwick Region Airport Economic Zone (AEZ), to the arrival of key routes to Kenya, Uganda and Bahrain. Gatwick provided expert advice to shape West Sussex’s new economic strategy and supported the Sussex Six campaign to promote local produce to its global audience, with 32 Sussex products now available in restaurants, bars and shops across the airport. As an industry partner, the airport has also supported the development and launch of the Crawley Innovation Centre, which opened in April.

With more than 540,000 students reached through London Gatwick’s education programmes since 2021 and construction now complete on the new Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology in Crawley, the airport continues to play a vital role in shaping the region’s future workforce.

This week, London Gatwick also announced the launch of 29 new services from major airline Jet2, who will base five aircraft at the airport from March 2026, creating more than 300 jobs.

Julie Kapsalis, Chief Executive of NESCOT and AEZ taskforce member, added: “London Gatwick’s leadership is helping us connect education, enterprise and innovation. The AEZ is a platform for collaboration, and the airport’s investment in skills and infrastructure is creating real opportunities for local people. Looking ahead, the Northern Runway is exactly the kind of opportunity that will secure high-quality jobs for the next generation across the Gatwick Region.”

As the South East prepares for the creation of a Mayoral Combined County Authority, London Gatwick’s strategic importance is clearer than ever – anchoring growth, attracting investment and connecting communities to global opportunity.