Thomas Woldbye, chief executive of Heathrow Airport, has cautioned against rejecting plans for a third runway, characterizing such a decision as a substantial missed opportunity for the country. Speaking on BBC Radio 4, Woldbye indicated that if the airport’s investors cannot proceed with expansion, their capital will likely be deployed in other nations rather than remaining in the UK.
The government has indicated it is reviewing consultation responses and considering next steps regarding the expansion project. The Department for Transport stated support for airport expansion nationally where it can drive economic growth while meeting environmental standards. Officials highlighted that Heathrow expansion carries potential to generate approximately £40 billion in economic benefits across the country.
The third runway proposal has remained contentious for decades, drawing opposition from residents, politicians, and environmental advocates. Last year, the then-chancellor announced government backing for the expansion. The project would require demolition of hundreds of homes, river diversions, and M25 motorway rerouting, with construction estimated at £33 billion. The runway was originally scheduled to open by 2035 but faces potential delay to 2039 due to planning and regulatory considerations.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has not explicitly stated his position on the project, saying the matter should be decided by London residents. Burnham previously opposed the scheme while serving as Mayor of Greater Manchester. Woldbye expressed hope the current government would support the project, noting union backing and emphasizing benefits would extend nationwide through the airport’s supply chain.
Heathrow currently operates four passenger terminals and two runways, serving over 80 million travelers annually. A third runway could increase annual flights from the current 480,000 cap to 720,000. The airport is owned by a consortium including French private equity firm Ardian, the Qatar Investment Authority, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, and the China Investment Corporation.
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