Gatwick Airport has one of its busiest summers

Gatwick Airport said it is having one of its "busiest summers yet”, according to the latest passenger data.

In the first half of 2024, 19.9 million passengers travelled through its two terminals, which is 7.7% more than the same period in 2023.

The West Sussex airport hopes to double capacity by making use of its existing northern runway.

Stewart Wingate, airport chief executive, said the "strong start" is thanks to "robust planning" and it has delivered a "reliable and enjoyable experience" for passengers.

Mr Wingate said: “I am delighted that we have once again achieved good service levels, as evidenced by meeting 100% of our service measures."

Service measures include the availability of seating in departure lounges, waiting times at security and baggage delivery times.

The airport recorded half-year revenues of £488 million, a rise of 15.3% from a year earlier.

Underlying earnings were up 13.9% year on year to £268 million, with net profit for the period up 33.8% at £106 million.

If approved, Gatwick’s planning application to bring its existing emergency northern runway into routine use could see it being regularly utilised by the end of 2029.

Mr Wingate added: “Through our northern runway project, we are demonstrating our commitment to growing sustainably, in line with our decade of change sustainability strategy and government policy.”