New data provided by Frontier Economics has identified a list of UK airports most likely to benefit from new or restored connections to London Heathrow once additional capacity is delivered via the airport’s long-awaited third runway.
The analysis highlights Belfast International, Cornwall Airport Newquay, Leeds Bradford Airport, Liverpool John Lennon and Teesside International Airport as candidates for new domestic links to the airport, based on evidence of underlying demand.
Heathrow has stated that these new connections would ‘strengthen connectivity between the UK’s nations and regions and global markets, facilitating trade, tourism and investment’ from the North York Moors to Belfast.
The airport, which has been operating at capacity for the last twenty years, has expressed confidence that the installation of a third runway would give airlines the headroom to both introduce and reinstate connections.
Heathrow has also stated that it aims to continue its domestic passenger discount and work with the GREAT campaign to showcase the ‘best of the UK’, as well as providing support in advocating for wider policy reforms, ensuring Public Service Obligation regulations are fit for purpose, amending UK slot allocation rules to include domestic connectivity as a primary criterion, and abolishing domestic Air Passenger Duty.
Nigel Milton, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, Heathrow, said:Domestic connectivity has always been central to Heathrow’s role as the UK’s only hub airport. For many communities, these links are not a luxury, they are a lifeline, connecting people and businesses to opportunities across the UK and around the world.
With additional capacity, we can strengthen these vital connections and ensure every part of the country can benefit from Heathrow’s global network.
