09 Mar 10 Gatwick Airport – Past & Present

Gatwick airport is London's second biggest airport. It is the 8th largest (by passenger traffic) airport in Europe, and is one of the top 30 busiest airports in the world. Gatwick also holds the record as the busiest single-runway airport in the world, constantly handling traffic that other airports divide over multiple runways.

Gatwick recently announced plans to expand their infrastructure with a one billion pound investment aimed at improving the visitor experience in terms of everything from access to aesthetics. Airport officials remain firmly convinced that this investment might even help them surpass the famous Heathrow in terms of amenities and passenger accessibility, and demonstrate the airport's commitment to continued quality.

With a long history as a major hub of air travel, Gatwick has served as a gateway between London and the rest of the world for millions of people. However even with all the things Gatwick is famous for, there are just as many elements of its history that are not quite as evident, and can be a joy for the inquisitive historian to discover.

#1 - Architectural Advances

Gatwick unveiled the world's first circular airport terminal (named the 'Beehive') in 1936. Though they are commonplace these days, it was an extraordinary achievement for the time. There was a rail link directly to the terminal, and for the first time passengers could directly board their aircraft instead of having to travel across the runway on foot or by bus.

#2 - Private Flying Club

Gatwick was not originally a public airport for major travel. In its early years, it was used as a home for a private flying club. The Surrey Aero Club used their growing prestige to promote interest in flying in general, and helped contribute to the continued growth of the airfield, to the point that Gatwick received its first commercial flying licenses in 1934.

#3 - The Queen Of England

The Queen of England has twice graced Gatwick airport with her presence. In 1956 the airport temporarily closed in order to undergo a major redevelopment, and it was Queen Elizabeth II who oversaw the ceremonies in 1958. Then, thirty years later, the Queen and Prince Phillip were also present for the opening of the new North Terminal as well.

#4 - The Blitz

During the second World War, all available resources had to be turned toward keeping Britain safe from the German Luftwaffe. Gatwick participated when it was requisitioned by the RAF as a combat airfield, and provided service to a number of important operations necessary to keeping England's skies clear of bombers.

If you arrive at Gatwick Airport and need a Gatwick car hire company then visit http://www.gatwickcarhire.org.uk

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