The Minister saw first-hand the successful transformation that has already taken place at Stansted in the five years under MAG ownership and was updated on how the airport is preparing for the imminent launches of Primera Air’s new services to the USA and Canada and Emirates flights to Dubai.
Divisional CEO of London Stansted Airport, Ken O’Toole, said:“I am delighted the Aviation Minister and her team were able to join us at London Stansted today to see the progress we are making in transforming our airport into an operation that can play a vital role in making the East of England one of the best places in the world to live, work and do business.
“Under MAG’s ownership, Stansted has been rejuvenated over the last five years, adding nearly 10 million passengers a year, more than doubling the number of airlines and expanding our route network to over 190 destinations.
“This is a clear reflection of the significant benefits that competition brings for passengers and airlines alike and into the future we hope to be granted permission to raise our planning cap and offer greater numbers of well-earned holidays and business trips, encouraging more inbound tourism and connecting local businesses to the global marketplace via the airport’s extensive cargo network.
“We are all really excited at the prospect of welcoming Emirates to Stansted in June, in addition to Primera Air adding direct flights to New York, Boston, Toronto and Washington. Our ambition now is to secure new services to key markets in China and India and more routes to the USA.
“Over the next decade, runway capacity in the south-east will be at a premium and Stansted will be responsible for delivering 50% of London’s expected passenger growth and make a greater contribution to improving the UK’s connectivity with the rest of the world.”
Aviation Minister Baroness Sugg said: “London Stansted is one of the UK’s leading airports and we welcome the £600m investment to deliver the best possible airport experience for passengers. The new terminal and facilities will help provide travellers with a seamless and faster experience through the airport.
“This is on top of the additional routes which will open up new destinations for passengers and bring benefits to local businesses and residents.”