Conference Papers 2014

Seminar
Day 3 (1 Oct 2014), Session 7, Airports, 09:00 - 11:00

Status
Accepted, awaiting documents

Authors
John Hawthorne, SKM Colin Buchanan

Short abstract
This paper reviews the impact of a number of UK and mainland European airports on the pattern of local public transport, and considers whether there are identifiable winners and losers among different passenger groups.

Abstract
The UK Airports Commission is currently assessing the need for expansion of airport capacity in the UK, and published its interim report at the end of 2013.
Prior to the publication of the interim report, the Chair of the Commission wrote to the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer setting out the strong case for attaching a greater strategic priority to transport investments which improve surface access to airports.
In his letter he noted that the needs of other users of the transport network must be considered, and made a number of recommendations, which he claimed would deliver substantial and wider positive impacts and benefits.
However, there may be significant differences between the transport requirements of air passengers and those of others who may live, work or travel though the area around the airport. A further complication is the transport requirements of those who work at the airport.
Whilst enhanced availability of public transport serving airports may indeed have wider positive impacts and benefits, the provision of premium or exclusive services specifically for air passengers may have a negative impact on the quality or availability of services for other users.
This paper reviews the impact of a number of UK and mainland European airports on the pattern of local public transport, and considers whether there are identifiable winners and losers among different passenger groups.
In particular, is considers whether there are identifiable characteristics of airports which successfully contribute to the provision of local public transport, and the extent to which it may be possible or desirable to develop airports as public transport hubs for non-air passengers.