Heathrow and Gatwick Expansion Plans Face Political and Environmental Challenges

Heathrow prepares to submit third runway plans, while Gatwick awaits decision on its second runway amid concerns over climate and community impacts.

Heathrow Airport reported record passenger numbers of 83.9 million in 2024 and a 31% rise in pre-tax profits to £917 million, citing growing demand for air travel.
The UK government, led by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, has expressed support for airport expansions to boost economic growth, with Heathrow's third runway targeted for completion by 2035.
Gatwick Airport's £2.2 billion plan to convert its emergency runway into routine use could add 100,000 flights annually, with a decision from the transport secretary expected imminently.
Environmental groups and local communities have raised concerns about noise, air quality, and climate impacts of both Heathrow's and Gatwick's expansion projects, with potential legal challenges anticipated.
Heathrow's proposed third runway and Gatwick's second runway are positioned as pivotal infrastructure projects, but both face significant logistical, regulatory, and environmental hurdles.