Heathrow Airport’s third runway plan chosen as Government’s preferred option

The UK Government has announced that it has selected Heathrow Airport’s own proposal for a third runway as its preferred option.

The two plans put forward were very different with Heathrow’s plan including a 2.2 mile long runway which would require the M25 to be moved and a tunnel being built under the runway.

In contrast, a bid backed by Hotel tycoon Surinder Arora, proposed a shorter runway which would not the M25 altered.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said it favoured Heathrow’s bid as it offered the most deliverable option and be the one most likely to be able to gain planning consent within this parliament.

The announcement was welcomed by the British Airline Pilots Association (BALA) who also called on the government to ensure there was enough trained pilots to meet the growing demand that the new runway would bring.

Joji Waites, BALPA Director for Flight Safety, Policy and Regulation, said, “The government’s decision to award the contract for Heathrow’s third runway today is excellent news for the UK aviation sector. Expanding Heathrow’s third runway will deliver an extra 276,000 flights to the UK every year, creating new jobs in the air and on the ground.” adding “The private sector has stepped up and funded Heathrow’s expansion. Now it’s time for the government   to play their part, to think creatively about the policy changes needed to make pilot training accessible to anyone who wants to fly.”

Heathrow Airport is currently working with Costain to deliver its new investment program and Jonathan Willcock, managing director, transportation, at Costain, also welcomed the news saying: “Today’s announcement provides welcome clarity and certainty for a project that will cement the UK’s position as a global hub while greatly enhance the passenger experience. Increasing Heathrow’s capacity will support skills development, create jobs and boost trade, all of which are critical in enabling a more economically prosperous and resilient future.

“We know from working on complex infrastructure projects that the key to success lies in robust, detailed planning. Early contractor involvement and fostering collaboration through long-term partnerships will ensure that the expansion is delivered safely and efficiently on time and on budget”

The final decision to go ahead with the project is still likely to be several years off but the next stage is for Heathrow Airport to formally apply for planning permission, with a decision expected by 2029.

Heathrow Airport’s Third Runway Plans

• New Runway which will increase capacity by over 750,000 flights per year
• New Terminal, T5X
• Terminal 2 Expansion with three new satellite terminals
• Terminal 3 closure
• Diverting the M25 via a Tunnel under the new runway
• Enhanced local rail services and public transport connectivity