The proposed expansion of Heathrow, along with planned expansions at other London airports such as Gatwick and Luton, is expected to face strong opposition. Critics argue that increasing air travel would contradict the UK's climate change commitments.
Despite opposition, Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended the project, stating, "Sustainable aviation and economic growth go hand in hand."
Heathrow, currently the UK's busiest airport, serving over 80 million passengers annually, is considering building a third runway. This expansion would involve significant infrastructure changes, including the demolition of homes, river diversion, and rerouting a section of the M25 motorway underground.
The airport aims to increase its annual flights from 480,000 to 720,000, potentially accommodating up to 140 million passengers when the third runway is operational. Funding for the expansion is planned to come from charging airlines for airport use.
With government support, the planning process could take up to two years, potentially facing legal challenges and environmental concerns from opponents. Construction is estimated to take an additional six to seven years once planning is complete.
Despite initial proposals dating back to 2009, the project only received full approval from the Supreme Court in 2020. Even with government officials like Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressing reservations due to climate concerns, the economic benefits are also being considered.
Proponents argue that expanding Heathrow and other airports could boost economic growth, create jobs, and aid UK exports. However, environmental groups and officials like London Mayor Sadiq Khan oppose expansions due to concerns about air quality and noise pollution.
The aviation industry is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions and mitigate its impact on climate change. The UK government's Climate Change Committee has advised caution in approving airport expansion without a comprehensive plan to manage capacity and emissions.
Heathrow's potential expansion is seen as crucial for signaling the government's commitment to economic growth. Still, it faces challenges related to environmental impact and sustainability.
The approval process for Heathrow's expansion is further ahead than plans for Gatwick and Luton, which also aim to increase capacity significantly by the 2040s. Gatwick and Luton expansions are scheduled for government decisions this year, with Gatwick targeting 75 million passengers per year and Luton planning a new terminal.