New data revealed by London Gatwick has found that 53% of 16 to 24-year-olds chose to travel to London Gatwick via rail during the first three months of 2025 – an increase from 47% in 2024.
The figure compares to 44% of all passengers thus far in 2025, with data also showing that the same age bracket (Gen Z) was more likely to travel over two hours to reach the Airport, with 17% making the trip in 2024 compared to 14% of all passengers.
London Gatwick offers direct services to over 120 stations, with up to 19 trains travelling to London via its dedicated on-site station per hour.
Nick Williams, Head of Passenger Operations, London Gatwick said:It’s inspiring to see younger passengers embracing rail travel in such strong numbers. Gen Z is leading the shift toward more sustainable airport access and we’re proud to support that with excellent rail connectivity and frequent services to meet their needs.
London Gatwick has pledged to continue making investments into improving the frequency of connections, longer timetables and new direct connections through its Sustainable Transport Fund (STF).
Improvements thus far include the doubling of Great Western Railway services from Gatwick to Reading to two trains per hour.
Jenny Saunders, Customer Services Director, Govia Thameslink Railway said:Our Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink trains are a swift and sustainable way to reach London Gatwick, so it's refreshing to see so many younger people choosing us.
Many will also be attracted by the multi-million-pound redeveloped station, opened at Gatwick less than two years ago. This has wider platforms, a brand-new concourse, new lifts and escalators to make it bigger, better and more accessible than ever before.
