London Gatwick Airport has announced that it will cut approximately 24 percent of its current workforce as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
Gatwick Airport has announced plans for a significant, companywide restructuring to reduce operations and staff costs. The airport states the measures result from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on air traffic and passenger numbers. The proposals could result in around 600 job cuts or approximately 24 percent of Gatwick’s workforce.
Compared to last year, passenger numbers are over 80 percent down in August, usually one of Gatwick’s busiest months. The airport has been trying to reduce costs since the beginning of the pandemic in March. So far, it has secured a 300 million pound bank loan. Nevertheless, the airport is operating at just 20 percent of its regular capacity. In the meantime, 75 percent of its staff is still on the U.K.’s Job Retention Scheme (Furlough), which is due to end in October.
“If anyone is in any doubt about the devastating impact COVID-19 has had on the aviation and travel industry, then today’s news we have shared with our staff, regarding the proposed job losses, is a stark reminder. We are in ongoing talks with Government to see what sector-specific support can be put in place for the industry at this time, alongside mechanisms which will give our passengers greater certainty on where and when they can safely travel abroad. This support will not only help Gatwick but the wider regional economy which relies on the airport.”
Stewart Wingate, CEO Gatwick Airport