Heathrow Advances Preparatory Work on Third Runway
Heathrow Airport has confirmed approval of a new investment to begin work on a planned application for a third runway, marking progress on the UK’s largest proposed aviation infrastructure project. The move comes as several regulatory and policy milestones scheduled for 2026 are expected to determine whether the project can advance to its next phase.
The proposed expansion is positioned as a key national infrastructure initiative aimed at supporting long-term economic growth. A third runway is expected to attract significant private investment, increase airport capacity, enhance airline competition, and strengthen the UK’s international connectivity and trade links.
The UK Government has outlined a timetable targeting planning permission by 2029, with the third runway becoming operational within the following decade. Heathrow has reiterated that while its shareholders continue to support the expansion, the project will proceed only once the required regulatory and policy frameworks are confirmed. Several critical decisions are anticipated throughout 2026.
Key Regulatory Milestones in 2026
Spring 2026: Clarity is expected from the Civil Aviation Authority on mechanisms for the recovery of early project costs.
Summer 2026: The Department for Transport is set to publish a draft Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), alongside a decision by the CAA on the long-term regulatory model that will underpin private investment.
Autumn 2026: Parliament will be asked to vote on the final ANPS, establishing the formal planning framework for the project.
Approval of the final policy framework would place the UK on a pathway toward potential first flights from a third runway within the next decade, subject to planning consent and regulatory approvals.
Thomas Woldbye, CEO, Heathrow Airport, 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 focused on securing the benefits of the project by meeting vital milestones in 2026 that are essential to enabling the next phase of delivery.”
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