Gatwick has vowed to launch a £20 million fund to support new domestic flights if the airport is allowed to build a second runway.
The Sussex airport announced the plan following criticism from Flybe’s CEO about its support for regional flights, and a day after Heathrow launched an advertising campaign to promote six regional cities and areas in the UK.
Gatwick said that the fund would support flights around the UK for the 10 years following the opening of a second runway. It could be used to incentivise airlines to introduce new domestic routes, as well as backing joint marketing campaigns with regional UK tourist boards.
The airport also defended its domestic network by stressing that it currently serves 11 UK destinations compared to seven from Heathrow.
Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate said: “Gatwick has always been serious about encouraging the growth and development of a strong network of competing airports around the UK. This fund - and the measures we propose to support it - will improve connectivity to London for those that need it.
“Gatwick expansion is best for the UK and regions because it supports not only the growth of connectivity to London, but also more connectivity between all UK airports and international short and long-haul destinations.”
Both Gatwick and Heathrow have been short-listed for potential expansion by the Airports Commission, headed by Sir Howard Davies. The commission is due to make its final recommendation about which airport should be allowed to expand after the general election.