Gatwick Airport, this week, hosted an official handover event to mark the completion of the new inter-terminal shuttle.

Bombardier Transportation, Costain Group and Vinci Construction presented the keys to Gatwick's Stewart Wingate, Chief Executive Officer and Ray Melee, Projects Director.

For Gatwick, this signifies the first major milestone in its £1 billion development programme that will modernise the airport and provide a better experience for passengers at every step of their journey.

The original inter-terminal shuttle at Gatwick was installed more than 20 years ago and was removed from service in September last year having completed more than two and half million miles.

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With an investment of £43 million, the project included the installation of a completely new shuttle system, new shuttle cars, refurbishment of the rubber track and transformation of the terminal stations.

The new shuttle will speed up the passengers' journey, taking under three minutes to travel between terminals. Further benefits also include: extra seating; live journey information; greater security with monitored onboard CCTV cameras and full access for passengers with reduced mobility.

Gatwick's Director of Capital Projects, Ray Melee confirmed its £1 billion investment programme is a top priority for Gatwick.

"Delivering this significant project two months early, is a reflection of how well the Gatwick team and our construction partners worked together to make sure our passengers can enjoy a great experience at the airport this summer.

"Airports are complex environments to work in, the shuttle had to meet the challenges of maintaining the highest level of safety at all times, while also minimising disruption to our passengers journeys through Gatwick - I'm proud of what we have achieved."

(CD/GK)