GATWICK passengers are set to benefit from a more competitive service following the takeover of the London airport.

Local airlines yesterday gave a cautious welcome after BAA agreed to sell for £1.51bn the UK’s second-busiest airport to Global Infrastructure Partners, which already owns London City Airport.

Spokesman for the investment fund, Stephen Hardwick, said that while the owner of the airport would be different, day-to-day service for Channel Island passengers would not change.

‘There are changes we want to make but they are down to improving operational functions and customer services.

‘I cannot see there is any desire to reduce the service with Guernsey. We will be looking to grow the airport and there is certainly room to do that.’

Flybe’s chief commercial officer Mike Rutter said the airport played a crucial role in connecting the UK regions to the capital. ‘Over the years, the airport’s mission has changed and this sale represents a real opportunity for the new owners to strengthen Gatwick’s position as the champion of short-haul and European flying.’

Mr Rutter said GIP would be making a fatal mistake if it tried to chase ‘trophy airlines’ that promised glamorous long-haul destinations.

Aurigny commercial director Malcolm Coupar said Gatwick had been part of the BAA monopoly of major London airports for too long, which had led to a lack of investment in facilities.

BAA, which owns seven UK airports, was ordered to sell Gatwick following an inquiry that found customers were suffering from a lack of competition between airports.