Airline representative group BARUK has hit back at rail union RMT’s report that more rail services should replace short haul flights from Heathrow.
The RMT said more high-speed rail links should be invested in rather than another runway and a sixth terminal at Heathrow, claiming 20% of flight journeys out of the London hub could be done by rail.
This, says the union, would benefit the economy, create jobs and cut pollution.
But BARUK says the report is flawed because it is London-focussed and ignores the fact that many of the passengers taking short-haul flights do not start their journey in the capital and connect from the regions.
It adds that 80% of journeys cannot be done by rail and the airport is “full to burstingâ€, adding that even though plans to expand the airport are in their early stages, they are still way ahead of any plans for high speed rail links.
BARUK’s chief executive Mike Carrivick said: “The debate should not be about planes or trains. It is not one or the other. Instead it should be about how soon rail links to Heathrow can be improved. It is vital that public transport access to Heathrow, and the other major UK airports, is improved.
“Airlines would welcome the addition of new rail links to Heathrow, and we look forward to working with rail stakeholders to achieve those aims.â€
He added: “BARUK played a significant role in saving the Gatwick Express service because of its belief in the vital role rail services play in airport surface access. We would welcome the opportunity to play our part in supporting enhanced rail services to Heathrow.’’
By Dinah Hatch
