Heathrow Submits £21bn Third Runway Plan, Aims for Completion Within Decade
Heathrow has formally submitted a shovel-ready proposal for a third runway, targeting operational readiness within ten years. The project, fully funded through private investment, includes a £21 billion plan for a new runway and airfield infrastructure, with a broader £49 billion investment encompassing terminal expansion and airport modernisation over time.
The north-west runway, already backed by Parliament, would increase capacity to 756,000 flights and 150 million passengers annually. It promises up to 30 new destinations, enhanced domestic connectivity, and greater airline competition, expected to drive down fares and improve choice.
Heathrow’s blueprint includes the construction of a new terminal, T5X, expansion of Terminal 2, and the eventual closure of Terminal 3. The airport also plans upgrades to public transport access, including rail, road, walking and cycling infrastructure, alongside new parkways and a redesigned airfield to improve flow and reduce delays.
The project is forecast to contribute 0.43% to the UK’s GDP, with 60% of the economic benefit expected outside of London and the South-East. Tens of thousands of jobs are anticipated during the planning, construction, and operational phases, supporting a broad national supply chain.
Heathrow has committed to reaching net zero by 2050 and continues progress on emissions reduction, with decarbonisation efforts already reducing ground and flight-related carbon emissions.
Pending the Government’s policy support and an updated regulatory framework, Heathrow aims to begin consultation next year, with planning consent targeted by 2029.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye
“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.”
Confederation of British Industry, British Chambers of Commerce, MakeUK, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors:
“The UK business community supports the expansion of Heathrow with a third runway — an investment in the nation’s future. The benefits are clear: for exporters, it opens up vital access to major and emerging markets; for visitors, it enhances global and domestic connectivity; and for businesses, it unlocks billions in private investment, strengthening supply chains, creating jobs, and driving skills across the country.”
Kenton Jarvis, CEO, easyJet
“Expansion at Heathrow will provide consumer and economic benefits and represents a unique opportunity for easyJet to operate from the airport at scale for the first time and bring with it lower fares for consumers.”
Heathrow Business Coalition Members
“The Heathrow Business Coalition firmly supports the proposal for a third runway at Heathrow. As representatives of the airport’s exporters, supply chain partners, and retailers, we have witnessed first-hand the advantages of a thriving, globally competitive hub. Expanding capacity at the UK’s busiest airport is essential to keeping British businesses at the forefront of international trade.”
Gareth Stace, Director-General, UK Steel
“UK Steel welcomes Heathrow’s commitment to the UK Steel Charter and its decision to prioritise UK-made steel in its multi-billion-pound investment programme. This is a strong vote of confidence in Britain’s steel sector, supporting skilled, well-paid jobs, driving economic growth, and reinforcing resilient national supply chains. Heathrow’s leadership will deliver long-term benefits to steel communities, local businesses, and regions that stand to gain most from industrial investment.”
Scottish Chambers of Commerce & FSB Scotland
“The Scottish business community endorses the development of a third runway at Heathrow, recognising it as a critical infrastructure investment with significant economic opportunities. This expansion will not only enhance Scotland’s connectivity to key international markets but also strengthen the UK’s position as a global trading hub. By facilitating greater trading access to emerging and established economies, we are empowering Scottish businesses to scale, export, and compete on the world stage, while driving inclusive economic growth across the country.”
Amy Smith, Managing Director (Interim), Cornwall Airport Newquay
“Cornwall Airport Newquay supports infrastructure development that enables true regional connectivity. The proposed third runway at Heathrow has the potential to deliver meaningful hub access for regions like Cornwall – but only if there is a clear and sustained commitment to slot accessibility and affordability for regional carriers and regional routes. Direct and reliable connectivity to a UK hub is vital for Cornwall’s economy, inward investment, and the future of sustainable regional aviation.”
Business organisations, trade unions, and regional airports across the UK have expressed support for the expansion, citing opportunities for growth, improved connectivity, and more substantial global competitiveness.
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