Originally Posted by
vectismanpaul
I’m not sure I agree 100% with idea that short haul leisure base at Gatwick existed or exists for those reasons, especially with the much expanded leisure route network ftom Heathrow. The two class cabin is differentiator imperfect as it may be. Fares wise BA do seem to be challenging other carriers. I continually compare EasyJet and BA when making my travel plans and BA is competitive. I agree this is not the same as assumptions regarding profit. However BA do seem keen to keep their short haul presence at Gatwick and plan to expand it. Knowing their obsession with costs I doubt they would continue to pursue if situation was hopeless.
I do know from various contacts that flights are often full in all cabins including the A321s.I understand that may not relate directly to yield but there is a demand there.
I do think part of the reason is to keep the Gatwick slots and stop a competitor like Wizz Air taking them. Obviously if there's more competition it will affect their SH Heathrow operations.
It is also better for BA to have them instead of Vueling as it's extra income at the end of the day, and obviously supporting UK jobs.
I guess having a SH presence at Gatwick helps with the overheads of GGS to provide economies of scale, without it the LH services may have to outsource ground handling which could add extra expense.
So overall it makes a lot of sense but only if they don't bleed money.
The fares are very competitive with easyJet, even from Heathrow.