Luton Airport could have two new runways

Airline Easyjet has called on the government to consider expanding regional airports like Luton when it considers transport policy for the South East.

The Luton-based firm's comments come after it recorded a net loss of about �46m during the half-year to the end of March.

Easyjet spokesman Toby Nichol says it was not necessary to expand Heathrow or Gatwick when there is spare capacity at Luton.

"A few years ago no-one was flying to Europe from Luton in the way we do now.

"We would like to see a much greater development of smaller, regional airports.

Concern from campaigners

"Over time that could reduce the role of Heathrow."

In December, ambitious plans were unveiled for two new runways at Luton airport.

But the plans were attacked by campaigners concerned at the loss of green field land.

If the plans were approved the airport, which handles about six million passengers a year, could see this figure rise to 85 million.