An airport post office could close because it is not making enough money.

Royal Mail is considering shutting down the branch at Gatwick, one of only three located in UK airports, in November.

Kevin Ray, of Post Office Ltd, said: "Against the background that Post Office Ltd lost £194 million last year, and the Government also wants another £50 million annually trimmed off the operating costs of our directly-managed branches, closure is the logical option for a loss-making, unsupportable branch such as the one at Gatwick."

People tended to use local post offices rather than the one at the airport.

A spokesperson for Gatwick said: "We are aware that the Post Office is considering closing its branch in the South Terminal and recognise the concern this will undoubtedly cause among staff and passengers at the airport.

"While BAA was not involved with the Post Office's plans to consider closure of the branch, we have now initiated discussions to look at how the services currently on offer could continue to be available in some form.

"The Post Office has now started a consultation process with its customers and we strongly encourage people to respond with their views directly to the Post Office."

The closing date for responses is Monday, September 29. Write to National Consultation Team, PO Box 2060, Watford, WD18 8ZW.