Heathrow Airport has submitted its long-awaited proposals to the UK government for a third runway, which it says could increase the airport’s cargo capacity by 50% and drive substantial economic growth.
The expansion plan, which is entirely privately funded, is expected to contribute 0.43% to the UK’s GDP, create new jobs, and direct 60% of supply chain spending to regions outside London and the South East, according to a statement shared by the airport on LinkedIn.
Heathrow group chief executive Thomas Woldbye called the submission a “significant and exciting milestone” for the airport. He said the new runway could be operational within a decade, provided the project receives government backing and supportive regulatory policies.
“With the right Government policy support, Heathrow expansion will unlock tens of thousands of jobs and growth across the UK, while delivering more choice, better value, and greater global reach for passengers and airlines in the once-in-a-generation redesign of our airfield,” Woldbye said.
He added that Heathrow is currently operating at full capacity, which limits trade and connectivity opportunities. The airport is prepared to begin investment this year if it receives a green light from policymakers and a regulatory model that supports long-term infrastructure planning.
The UK government reaffirmed its support for Heathrow’s third runway earlier this year, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves backing the expansion in January. The original approval for the project dates back to 2018, but progress has slowed amid the UK’s strengthened climate targets.
In December 2020, the UK committed to cutting emissions by 68% from 1990 levels by 2030, and to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. These commitments, along with rising scrutiny over noise and pollution, have intensified political and public debate over airport expansions.
Heathrow has not yet applied for a Development Consent Order (DCO), the formal planning approval required for major national infrastructure projects. Securing the DCO could be challenging, particularly as it must account for the UK’s tightened climate policies and growing opposition from within the Labour party, environmental groups, and community organisations.
In parallel with its expansion ambitions, Heathrow continues to invest in its existing cargo infrastructure. The airport is modernising its ‘Horseshoe’ cargo area and supporting the industry-wide rollout of the CCS-UK AIS portal, which streamlines truck bookings and enhances shipment visibility.
Other UK airports are also moving forward with expansion projects. Gatwick is seeking to bring its emergency runway into full use, while Luton aims to construct a new terminal to increase capacity.