The UK government is considering expanding airports across the country, including increasing capacity at Luton airport, approving a second runway at Gatwick, and the controversial third runway at Heathrow. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated she was “not going to comment on leaks” when asked in the House of Commons about the expansion on Tuesday. Speculation suggests she could make an announcement on airports next week during a speech. The push for growth has become more urgent after international markets cast doubt on the credibility of the UK’s economic plans.
The government has not commented on speculation but remains “determined to get our economy moving and secure the long-term future of the UK’s aviation sector”. All expansion proposals must demonstrate they contribute to economic growth, while remaining in line with environmental obligations. In December, Heathrow Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye said his company needs a “clear steer” from the new government by the end of 2025 over plans to expand the airport and build a third runway.
Gatwick’s capacity increase plans suggest a target of 75 million passengers per year, with completion by the end of the decade if plans go ahead. A decision on Luton’s expansion, which includes plans for a new terminal, is due by 3 April. Heathrow’s expansion plans have been divisive for the Labour party in the past, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer voting against a third runway in 2018 while Reeves supported it.
If any airport expansion proposals go ahead, they would be “vital” to the UK’s business growth, said the director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, Shevaun Haviland. She added that they would “help boost trade” at a time of increased costs for many businesses. Airport expansion projects must form a key part of the UK’s long-term infrastructure strategy to help businesses grow, trade, and thrive
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