Ash cloud boosts occupancy and revpar at London airport hotels

Hotel performance at London's airports increased in occupancy and average room rates compared with the same week last year, as the cloud of volcanic ash grounded air travel and stranded travellers, according to daily data from STR Global, the provider of market data to the hotel industry.

Revenue per available room (revpar) grew at Gatwick by 40% and at Heathrow by 70%.

Airports throughout continental Europe also reported major increases in revpar, with Frankfurt Rhein-Main recording a massive 369% growth which was largely due to the biennial trade fair, Light + Building, which took place in the city.

Occupancy for hotels in both Gatwick and Heathrow reached 90% on Thursday 15 April, the first day of the flight ban.

Flight chaos sparks fears of food shortages and price hikes >>

Volcanic ash cloud creates havoc for hoteliers >>

How has Heathrow Terminal 5 taken off? >>

By Janet Harmer

E-mail your comments to Janet Harmer here.

If you have something to say on this story or anything else join the debate at Table Talk - Caterer's new networking forum. Go to www.caterersearch.com/tabletalk

Caterersearch.com jobs
Looking for a new job? Find your next hotel job here with Caterersearch.com jobs