AN AIRPORT renowned for hosting budget UK take-offs has been crowned one of the best in the world.
The travel hub north of London edged out European competitors at an Airport Council International (ACI) gala dinner held in Istanbul.
London Luton Airport (LLA) claimed the best airport award for the 10-15million passenger category.
ACI said judges were fond of how management instilled a “one team, one plan” culture at the airport.
The judging panel said that mantra led to “increased resilience, reduced incidents and high employee satisfaction”.
LLA was able to reach the level four mark for the airport carbon accreditation program – aiming for a net-zero target by 2040 – in a show of adaptability, judges said.
The ACI added: “Despite a temporary passenger cap, 2023 was their most profitable year, with increased revenue and passenger spending.
“Infrastructure improvements featured new shops, lounges, and an electrified express rail service.
“They also showed impressive resilience to limit operational disruption and the communications challenge following the major car park fire in October, and have kept focus to deliver strong operational enhancements throughout the year.”
Luton managed keep its nose in front of fellow finalists Brussels Airport and Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport in Spain.
Luton chief executive Alberto Martin praised his team’s adaptability and resilience in response to winning the gong at the aviation awards night.
He said: “The award recognises LLA’s performance and achievements across a wide range of disciplines, as well as all-round resilience and adaptability.
“I am extremely proud of every member of LLA staff as this fantastic recognition is testament to the passion, commitment and professionalism shown by our dedicated teams across the airport who work so hard to deliver a simple and friendly passenger experience.”
Luton is now looking to expand by building a new terminal.
Commercial and legal boss Nick Prowse recently said they wanted to nearly double passenger capacity to 32million, according to New Civil Engineer.
He said: “We have applied to the government for a development consent order [DCO].
“We are trying to use our existing runway and make the best use of existing assets to grow the airport from 18million passengers currently to 32million passengers by building a new terminal.”
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