Former Conservative Prime Minister, Sir John Major, officially opened the multi-million-pound extension of Gatwick’s North Terminal last Thursday.

At a cost of £73 million, the 1.25-hectare extension provides 18 new check-in desks, bringing the total number to 144, four new baggage reclaim belts and means the North Terminal is on target to handle 20 million passengers per year by 2020.

Stewart Wingate, Gatwick Airport Chief Executive said: “It’s fair to say that passengers flying out of the North Terminal used to be greeted with a dated 80s feel with little aesthetic appeal and confusing wayfinding. But that was the Gatwick of yesteryear. Today, the layout and design of the upgraded forecourt, interchange facilities and the expanded terminal building provide a much more positive first impression.

“This is all part of our £1.2 billion investment programme, which has a focus on improving the overall passenger experience of our airport, from the moment they arrive at the front door, check-in, pass through security to when they board their flight. We want passengers to spend as little time in queues or waiting for luggage as is possible, and we want them to enjoy their surroundings before they jet off for their holidays.”