WORK on a new runway at Gatwick Airport could begin by 2020.
That was the message from the airport's chief executive as he launched a campaign to win support for plans to expand the site.
A proposed second runway at Gatwick is being considered by the Government's Airport Commission as a way of maximising air capacity in the South East.
A third runway at Heathrow is also being investigated by Sir Howard Davies' commission, which will publish its recommendations next spring.
But Gatwick chief executive Stewart Wingate believes expansion at his airport could be delivered cheaper and faster, with the first flights taking off from the new runway by 2025.
He said: "The next runway needs to bring the greatest economic return for the UK at the lowest environmental cost.
"That makes Gatwick the obvious answer, as we will be able to connect to more destinations in the future because we are the only airport to cater for all airline models.
"It is the best solution that embraces long-term aviation trends. It can also be delivered in less time, with less cost and less noise."
His claims were echoed by architect Sir Terry Farrell, who is overseeing the project.
Sir Terry believes a second runway at Gatwick could provide the same boost for the South East as the Olympics did for East London.
He said spreading the majority of traffic between two major airports – Gatwick and Heathrow – would share the economic benefits more evenly across the region.
Sir Terry added: "Expansion at Gatwick could do for South London and the wider region what the Olympics did for East London and give a huge boost in jobs, housing and regeneration."
To support the push for a second runway, airport chiefs have launched the Gatwick Obviously campaign. It includes plans to improve road and rail links at Gatwick, with a quarter of the UK's population now living within an hour of the airport.
Bosses also claim an expanded Gatwick would connect to 442 other airports – 27 more than an expanded Heathrow.
Mr Wingate added: "Passengers will benefit from more choice and better value for money. If chosen – and with swift decision-making – we are committing today to start work on site in the next Parliament."
