Heathrow Airport has submitted updated proposals for a third runway, stating it could be operational within ten years if the UK Government puts in place the required regulatory and policy framework.
The 21 billion GBP runway proposal forms part of a broader £49 billion investment plan to expand capacity and modernise infrastructure at the UK’s busiest airport.
The plan is privately financed and includes a new 3,500-metre north-west runway, a new terminal T5X, and upgrades to existing terminal facilities. According to Heathrow, the expansion could enable up to 756,000 flights and 150 million passengers per year.
The airport says the project is “shovel-ready”, with many technical studies and consultations already undertaken. If Government feedback is received by September, Heathrow expects to begin wider engagement with airlines, local authorities, businesses and communities from 2026, and submit a formal planning application by 2028.
Heathrow estimates the expansion would contribute around 0.43% to UK GDP, with 60% of economic benefits occurring outside London and the South East. The airport also expects to create employment opportunities through construction and operations, including across its national supply chain.
Additional capacity is intended to support up to 30 new destinations and strengthen domestic connectivity. Heathrow claims increased competition from more airlines operating at the airport would offer passengers a wider choice and could place downward pressure on fares.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said:It has never been more important or urgent to expand Heathrow. We are effectively operating at capacity to the detriment of trade and connectivity. With a green light from Government and the correct policy support underpinned by a fit for purpose regulatory model, we are ready to mobilise and start investing this year in our supply chain across the country. We are uniquely placed to do this for the country; it is time to clear the way for take-off.
Transport and Environmental Commitments
Despite the controversy of the third-runway plans, the proposals include commitments to the environment and surrounding transport networks. These include improvements to surface transport connections, such as rail capacity enhancements, a new road tunnel, two new parkways, and expanded walking and cycling routes. Plans also involve upgrades to Heathrow’s bus and coach station to improve access for passengers and airport staff.
Environmental measures form part of the submission, including a target for net zero emissions by 2050. Heathrow reports it has already reduced carbon emissions from aircraft by 10% and ground operations by 15% compared with 2019 levels. It plans further use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and airspace redesigns intended to improve reliability and reduce community disruption.
The airport’s noise footprint has reportedly reduced by 41% since 2006, and all current air quality monitoring stations are said to be within legal limits.
Heathrow is now awaiting the Government’s response to keep the project aligned with their proposed roadmap. The airport operator has said it is ready to begin early-stage investment and supply chain mobilisation before the end of this year, subject to policy clarity and regulatory alignment.
The total 49 billion GBP investment comprises:
- 21 billion GBP for the runway and associated airfield infrastructure
- 12 billion GBP for the new terminal and additional stand capacity
- 15 billion GBP for modernisation of existing infrastructure, including a major redevelopment of Terminal 2 and phased closure of Terminal 3
The figures include inflationary increases since previous estimates in 2018 and are subject to adjustment as design and regulatory processes progress.
