Increasing Number of UAE Travellers Opt for Luton
Heathrow Airport’s Recent Woes Highlight
Benefits of London’s Boutique Airport
An unexpected result of Silverjet’s popular new route from Dubai to London has been the increased interest in boutique airports such as London’s Luton airport, where the all-business class carrier’s exclusive private terminal is based.
The convenience of flying into London Luton has been dramatically highlighted by the recent troubles at Heathrow Airport, which has faced major flight and baggage delays including a reported 208 flights cancelled and 15,000 bags lost in the first three days of operation of its new T5 terminal.
Now more than ever, the desire to travel hassle-free and avoid the stress of traditional ‘hub’ airports such as Heathrow has driven UAE travellers to look for a way to avoid crowded, super-sized terminals, with airlines such as Silverjet emerging as a fresh alternative for weary passengers.
“The problems unfolding at Heathrow are one of the main reasons why we chose Luton Airport to base the Silverjet operation. Luton Airport is the least congested of all London airports, it’s not BAA operated and we have been able to work with Luton Airport to introduce our own dedicated baggage handlers resulting in Silverjet not having lost one bag checked-in at Luton,” said Lawrence Hunt, CEO of Silverjet.
In fact, specialized airports such as Luton, Gary Chicago, and Dayton International Airport are offering international travellers an array of benefits which have fueled the rapid rise of the ‘boutique’ airport model. Similar to boutique hotels, customers are drawn to these establishments for their focus on quality, exclusivity and personalization.
“At Silverjet, we know that there is a rapidly expanding segment of travellers in Dubai who expect more of their airlines. Fewer people are willing to tolerate the stress of using London’s major airports, which is why we are using the boutique airport model to create a better overall experience for our passengers,” he added.
Despite Luton’s traditionally lower profile among Middle East travelers, Silverjet passengers from Dubai – many of whom are flying into the airport for the first time - have been pleasantly surprised by the convenience and ease of travel when using the gateway.
Known as the private jet capital of the UK, Luton is used by over 50% of private jets flying in and out of London and provides a welcomed gateway for well-heeled Dubai travellers looking to avoid the never-ending congestion and inconveniences of London’s major airports.
According to the latest official CAA figures, Silverjet is currently the most punctual airline on the London-Dubai route. This high level of service, along with Luton’s single terminal, fast-tracked lines and seamless connections, have contributed to Silverjet’s strong operational performance.
Located just 32 miles northwest of the city and within easy reach by bus, car, or train, Luton boasts excellent and efficient transport links, with typical journey times to and from Central London from 35 minutes by road to 22 minutes by train.
Upon arrival in Luton at Silverjet’s private terminal, passengers pass through dedicated security and onward to chair-side immigration. At the carrier’s luxury Silver Lounge, customers can enjoy from WiFi facilities, continental breakfast and powder rooms to freshen up before heading off.
Silverjet flights depart Dubai daily at 1030 and arrive in London Luton Airport at 1445. Return flights depart from London Luton at 2100 and arrive in Dubai at 0830. Connecting flights to New York Newark are also available, departing London Luton Airport at 1645.
To book flights, please visit www.flysilverjet.com or call the airline’s 24 hour toll free contact centre number on 800 044 0224.
