Is Heathrow getting a new runway? Everything we know so far about airport expansion plans

• Heathrow Airport is actively pursuing plans to expand its capacity by constructing a third runway, a project that has been the subject of extensive debate and development over the years.
• Earlier this year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves backed expansion plans.
• Environmental concerns have been raised by several groups about the expansion.
• Nearby residents are fearful what a third runway could mean for their homes.

After years of debate, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has backed the expansion of London Heathrow Airport and plans to create a third runway. Claiming to boost the United Kingdom's infrastructure and economy, the new runway would generate over 100,000 jobs, connect the UK to emerging global markets and create new growth opportunities.

Already the busiest airport in the UK, Heathrow’s expansion will increase the number of flights from 480,000 to 720,000 per year, serving up to 140 million passengers annually. Not only does this open up the opportunity for more business travel, helping to facilitate more trade and investment, but it also allows more passengers to travel for leisure.

Heathrow Airport is currently operating very close to full capacity, with AirHelp recording over 42.7 million passengers departing from the airport last year. Of those passengers, 13.7 million (32%) faced disruptions and 733,000 (1.7%) incurred cancellations. AirHelp’s data reveals that 845,000 passengers departing from London Heathrow in 2024 may be entitled to compensation due to delays and cancellations.

Heathrow's CEO, Thomas Woldbye, confirmed that the airport plans to submit detailed proposals for the third runway to the government by the summer of 2025. This initiative is part of a broader, privately funded program aimed at upgrading existing infrastructure and laying the groundwork for the new runway.

What’s the timeline?

The airport aims to have the third runway operational by 2035. However, industry experts express skepticism about this timeline due to the project's complexity and potential legal and environmental challenges.

Who has environmental concerns?

Environmental groups and local communities, concerned about increased carbon emissions and noise pollution, oppose the expansion. Critics argue that the additional flights could significantly impact the UK's climate commitments.

Greenpeace UK and Friends of the Earth argue that the expansion will significantly increase carbon emissions, making it harder for the UK to meet its climate commitments.

Extinction Rebellion has staged protests against the project, highlighting its environmental impact.

The Climate Change Committee (CCC), the UK’s independent climate advisory body, has warned that expanding aviation contradicts the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Nimbyism

People living in West London and Surrey worry about increased noise pollution, air quality deterioration, and the impact on their homes. Communities in Sipson, Harmondsworth, and Harlington, which could be affected by demolitions or displacement due to the new runway, have voiced strong opposition. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has historically opposed the expansion, citing its negative effects on air pollution and public health.

What’s the latest on Heathrow Airport expansion?

Government Support: In January 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the UK government's backing for the third runway, emphasising its potential to bolster economic growth and enhance the UK's global connectivity. ​

Financial Movements: French private equity firm Ardian increased its stake in Heathrow to 32.6% by acquiring an additional 10% share. This investment reflects confidence in Heathrow's growth prospects, particularly with the planned expansion.

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