Airport News
Branson 'could put in bid for London Gatwick Airport'
Tue, 02 Sep, 2008
The owner of Virgin Atlantic Richard Branson could put in a bid to buy London Gatwick airport if it was put up for sale, it has been reported.
According to the Telegraph, the billionaire may consider buying the airport, Britain's second-biggest hub, as part of a consortium.
"We are open to being courted by anyone who is interested in bidding," the newspaper quoted Mr Branson as saying.
It is thought that the bid could be up to £2 billion and the newspaper claims he has held talks with several partners, including the Dubai royal family.
The airport is not yet for sale and a final report from the Competition Commission on the UK airports industry is not expected until February 2009.
Virgin Atlantic operates long-haul routes from its main bases at London Heathrow airport and London Gatwick airport.
It also has a smaller base at Manchester airport.
Meanwhile, London Gatwick handles approximately 34 million passengers a year.