It may be more of a rush to catch the Gatwick Express in the future if proposals designed at saving the threatened rail service are implemented.

Airport operator BAA and National Express, which runs the Gatwick Express franchise, have this week submitted proposals to the Department for Transport which is currently examining the Route Utisilisation Strategy for lines passing through the airport. In September 2004, the Strategic Rail Authority recommended scrapping the dedicated service in order to improve service on the London-Brighton main line.

However, the joint proposals would mean that trains spend less time waiting at the Gatwick Airport rail station before departing. Departure times would also have to be changed.

Paul Griffiths, managing director of Gatwick Airport, says: “We believe our joint proposal shows that the differing needs of the commuter and the air traveller can be reconciled. The existence of this compromise plan should enable the Department for Transport to reach a speedy conclusion to the Route Utilisation Strategy, and give air passengers, commuters and airlines confidence in the future of the rail services in which they all rely."

BAA adds that the plan would avoid “mixing large groups of air travellers and their baggage with other rail users which causes delays and poor service standards”.