Luton Airport backs sustainable surface access as fire car park reopens

London Luton Airport’s (LLA) has confirmed it will invest £1.5m in a dedicated public transport investment fund over the next year. Working in partnership with transport operators and local authorities, the funding will be used to explore opportunities to develop and promote more sustainable modes of transport to the airport including rail, bus and coach operations.

The announcement coincides with the opening of the airport’s newly rebuilt Car Park 2, following a major fire in October 2023. The fire caused the multi-story terminal car park to partially collapse, leading to widespread disruption, temporary flight suspensions, and damage to over 1,300 vehicles.

The temporary drop-off area set up after the fire will now make way for additional bus stands and, as part of the improvement programme, further changes have been made across the airport’s pick-up and drop-off points.

Alberto Martin, CEO of London Luton Airport, said, “We are committed to improving connectivity and to encouraging an increase in the use of more sustainable modes of transport to and from London Luton Airport.

“As part of our growth plans, we have set challenging targets on public transport use. We have begun exploring opportunities for the £1.5m Public Transport Investment Fund to be directed towards local bus services, improved rail connections, and infrastructure upgrades around the airport to encourage more sustainable travel and reduce reliance on private cars.

“By reopening our car park alongside this £1.5 million public transport fund, we’re supporting both the immediate needs of our passengers and the long-term goal of improving public transport links to and from the airport.”