London Heathrow Airport has formally submitted plans for a third runway, which is aims to have it operational by 2035, subject to policy support and a streamlined regulatory process.

The £21 billion proposal is expected to be entirely privately financed and positioned by the airport as a catalyst for national economic growth, job creation, and expanded global connectivity.

Heathrow says the expansion would enable up to 756,000 flights annually, serving as many as 150 million passengers and adding at least 30 new destinations. It also promises improved value for passengers and exporters through greater choice and increased competition.

The airport claims the scheme would boost UK GDP by 0.43%, with 60% of that benefit occurring outside London and the South-East. It also aims to increase Heathrow’s cargo handling capacity by 50%, solidifying its status as the UK’s most valuable port.

Thanks to years of preparatory work and stakeholder engagement, Heathrow says it is ready to meet government timelines, with planning consent achievable by 2029 and early works beginning this year.

The British International Freight Association (BIFA), a long-time supporter of Heathrow expansion, welcomed the submission but called on policymakers to act swiftly.

“For decades, successive UK governments have shown a singular lack of vision in the face of a massive surge in air transport,” said BIFA director general Steve Parker.

“BIFA members, who facilitate a significant proportion of the UK’s international trade through gateways like Heathrow, just want to see the government abid e by its objective to enable delivery of an operational third runway by 2035,” he added. “It is now time for everyone, including politicians of all parties, to pull together in the national interest and support the bold plans to expand and improve airport infrastructure at Heathrow in order to maintain the UK’s position as Europe’s most important aviation hub.”

While awaiting a decision on the runway, BIFA has been supporting Heathrow’s cargo modernisation plans. The airport unveiled proposals in October 2024 for a major redevelopment of its cargo estate, including new facilities and software systems aimed at improving freight flows and efficiency. Construction on these upgrades is expected to begin within the next two to three years.

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