Heathrow Airport has approved a new investment to initiate work on a planning application for its third runway project, ahead of a series of regulatory and policy decisions due in 2026.
This decision allows preparatory work to start, while the project’s progression remains dependent on outcomes from government and regulators over the next year. The Government’s timetable aims for planning permission to be secured by 2029, with a third runway becoming operational around a decade later.
Several milestones are scheduled for 2026. In the spring, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is expected to provide clarity on how early development costs could be recovered. During the summer, the Department for Transport is due to publish a draft Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), while the CAA will also decide on the long-term regulatory model for the airport. In the autumn, Parliament is expected to vote on the final ANPS, which would establish the planning framework for the project.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said:Heathrow expansion is taking another significant step forward today as our Board greenlights starting work on the planning application. This decision means we are on track to secure planning permission by 2029 and reflects Ministers’ renewed commitment to expansion and progress made to speed up delivery of the project to boost UK economic growth.
Heathrow expansion is a critical national project and a central part of our journey to make Heathrow an extraordinary airport, fit for the future. Maintaining momentum will mean the CAA and Ministers remain focussed on securing the benefits of the project by meeting vital milestones in 2026 that are essential to enabling the next phase of delivery.
The third runway proposal has been under discussion for several years and remains subject to political approval, regulatory decisions and the planning process before any construction can take place. The expansion would be funded through private investment and is intended to increase airport capacity, enhancing airline competition, connectivity and trade.
