A snapshot of low cost airlines during the period April 24 to 30 showed that Gatwick offered 572,058 seats, putting it at the top of the league. The nearest rival, Barcelona, offered just under 550,000, while third-place Stansted offered 511,594.
The data, produced by the Centre for Aviation and OAG, was released shortly after Gatwick announced a new route to Singapore from Norwegian, which the airport claims is the world’s longest budget route.
Norwegian currently offer 11 low cost long-haul services from Gatwick, with new routes also due to start in September to Denver and Seattle. Other low-cost long-haul carriers from Gatwick include WestJet, Air Transat and Air Canada Rouge, which fly to cities across Canada.
Stephen King, Gatwick’s head of airlines said: “News that Gatwick has become the world’s leading low cost airport shows that competition between airports is working and has allowed our long haul network to go from strength to strength.
“At this vital time for the country’s economy, it is great to see that the UK has more than just one national asset helping our businesses get goods and services to markets across the globe.”
Luton airport also features in the list, with 325,458 seats. Below it, in 10th place, is Dublin, with 306,261. Others include Dubai, Amsterdam and Kuala Lumpur.
