Slight decline in passenger figures

A second consecutive monthly drop in airport passenger figures is being attributed to the loss of the London City and Southampton routes.

Last month 58,915 passengers used the airport, 35 fewer than in May 2011.

The new London City operator, British Airways, only commenced its flights on May 28.

Last year nearly 4,000 passengers flew on the London City route.

When Aer Arran ended their operation of it, many opted to transfer to Flybe’s Gatwick service last month.

As a result the Gatwick passenger numbers were up by 33%, with flights averaging 77% full for the month.