Heathrow Airport has issued a clear warning that the future of its proposed third runway depends on the Government and the aviation regulator hitting crucial targets this year.
Critical Deadlines for Expansion Plans
The airport's board has now approved preparatory work for a formal planning application for expansion. However, Heathrow states that maintaining momentum requires "vital milestones" in 2026 to be met by both the Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
According to Heathrow, the CAA must provide "clarity" on how early development costs for the multi-billion-pound project can be recovered. This summer, the regulator is also due to decide on a long-term model for airport charges, which Heathrow identifies as a key factor in its final investment decision.
Government Policy Framework on the Horizon
Parallel to the CAA's work, the Department for Transport is expected to publish a draft Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) this summer. This document will set the national framework for deciding on airport growth projects across the UK.
Parliament is then scheduled to vote on the final version of this policy statement in the autumn. The Government has stated its ambition to make a final decision on the Heathrow expansion project before the end of the current Parliament in 2029.
A "Critical National Project"
Heathrow's Chief Executive, Thomas Woldbye, described the expansion as a "critical national project". He stated: "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."
Woldbye emphasised that this progress reflects ministers' renewed commitment to the project, which is aimed at speeding up delivery to boost UK economic growth. He concluded that focus from both the CAA and ministers on the 2026 milestones is essential to enabling the next phase of delivery for the new runway.
