Political backing for airlines as they fight Gatwick hikes

Friday 11th February 2011, 2:29PM GMT.

Malcolm Hart AURIGNY is set to challenge the landing fee hikes at Gatwick.

The Civil Aviation Authority can be asked to investigate if a regional airline considers an airport operator is discriminating against it.

Aurigny managing director Malcolm Hart (pictured) confirmed yesterday that the airline would challenge the decision taken by Gatwick, which from 1 April would increase its costs by £400,000 per year.

‘Aurigny and Flybe are working together with the support of local politicians to highlight the unjust rise in fees associated with small aircraft using London Gatwick Airport. As such we will expect to mount a challenge to these new charges under section 41 of the Airports Act,’ he said.