Create direct or one-change rail access to Heathrow for air passengers from across south and south west London and southern England, who currently have no rail link to the airport. CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) data (2006) showed approximately 22% of air passengers and 50% of staff live in areas that would have a direct rail service to Heathrow as a result of AirTrack.

Carry millions of passengers each year, a significant proportion of them travelling to or from Heathrow.

Reduce local road congestion and improve access for the thousands of people who work or want to work at Heathrow or the surrounding area.

Offer car users a realistic alternative in one of the most congested parts of the South East - especially for orbital journeys where public transport is currently poor.

Benefit businesses across the region by acting as a catalyst for new developments and improved labour mobility.

Provide more capacity on the suburban rail network, particularly to Waterloo, thus reducing crowding for existing passengers.