BA Joins Attack on Heathrow

British Airways Chief Willie Walsh has joined American Airlines in a scathing attack on London's Heathrow Airport.

Walsh says Heathrow is damaging the UK's economy and the reputation of its businesses, AFP reports.

"I believe it is in the interest of the country that the reputation of Heathrow is restored on a lasting basis as quickly as possible," Walsh says.

"For the sake of the UK economy and London's place as a business capital, Heathrow has to catch up.

"If things continue to decline, UK businesses will lose competitiveness and might be forced to consider relocating abroad.

"Businesses will also find it difficult to attract inward investment."

Earlier this week American Airlines head of customer service for Europe Don Langford branded it a "bit of a dump" and the "worst" among major European air hubs.

By Elizabeth Clifford-Marsh