CAA Plans Landing Fee Increases at London Airports

The Civil Aviation Authority has proposed what, in its words, are significant increases in the charges imposed on airlines using London Heathrow and London Gatwick Airports. The CAA - which regulates the UK airport sector - will hike up landing fees to permit BAA - the group which owns Heathrow, Gatwick and other airports - to finance a programme of security and facility upgrades.

The new proposals mean that, to land at Gatwick, airlines will be charged £6.07 for each passenger on board. At Heathrow, this figure increases to £11.97. Both amounts are in respect of the period 2008/2009. Following this, the charges will increase at a rate above inflation until 2013/2014.

In a statement issued by the CAA, it conceded that the increased landing charges were "significant".

"However...", it asserted, "...the increases in the price cap allow BAA to raise the standard of service provided by Heathrow and Gatwick to passengers and airlines and continue to invest to improve service delivery in the future."

BAA to Improve Heathrow Airport with Income from Increased Fees

The additional income generated will be used by BAA to invest in improving the situation at Heathrow especially. Heathrow's Terminal 5 will open early in 2008 but, following this, the present Terminals 1, 2 and 3 will be revamped.

However, in order to benefit from the additional finance potentially flowing its way, BAA is required to make improvements in the area of passenger service.

The Competition Commission has charged BAA with acting outside the interests of passengers.

CAA to Fine For Passenger Security Delays Over Five Minutes

The CAA is tightening its current target for passengers waiting to pass through airport security areas. Presently set at 10 minutes, the regulator will rein this in to five minutes. The measure, said the CAA, "...follows an adverse finding by the Competition Commission in relation to security queuing and queue times at the airports."

Additionally, under its new terms, higher penalties will be imposed in instances where the five minute period is exceeded.

Source - Airport International's London Reporter

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