The 'ordinary' trains that link Gatwick with London and the South Coast are certainly best avoided at peak times and also at other times if you've got luggage, etc.
Thameslink in particular is appalling even if you're just an ordinary commuter, simply because the trains are at peak times, always overcrowded.
The same problem arises with the Thameslink service to Luton Airport which is why those in the 'know' take the Midland Mainline service from St Pancras (or from major points north of Luton).
Although not an airport-dedicated service like the Gatwick Express, its 'Turbostar' trains are at least roomy, modern and clean, and the 23-minute journey from London to Luton Airport Parkway is the fastest after Paddington to Heathrow Central.
The plan to stop the Gatwick Express is just crazy, is short-sighted and flies directly in the face of the Blair Government's policy of encouraging the use of public transport. Driving from Central London to Gatwick is a nightmare, with the M23 only offering some relief well after passing Croydon, Coulsdon and the Surrey suburbs.
Another example of utter stupidity is that the Midland Mainline IntercIty 125 trains from/to St Pancras cannot stop at Luton Airport Parkway station because....the platforms are not long enough!!
Perhaps the clown responsible is the same idiot who has proposed scrapping the Gatwick Express.
It just makes you want to
