Heathrow expansion 'will benefit whole of UK'

As the decision over which London airport will be chosen to increase UK capacity draws near, advocates for a third runway at Heathroware trumpeting the airport’s unique status as the country’s only hub and say increasing its services would have widespread benefits.

The proposed expansion has received support in the local area as well as from other UK airports and as momentum grows this week saw the launch of the Heathrowsupporters campaign.

Locally a majority of people are in favour of the move, with 50% saying they would like to see the development go ahead, while only 33% oppose it.

According to the latest projections from the Airports Commission Heathrowexpansion would create up to 180,000 new jobs, adding up to £211bn to the British economy. Of this, £85 billion is benefit to nations and regions outside London and the South East.

These benefits would extend from Cornwall to Scotland because businesses all over Britain will be able to take advantage of new connections to the world’s fastest growing markets.

The airport also states that if current plans come to fruition, including new countrywide rail links, this will halve journey times for some passengers.

By 2030, research states, passengers could save on average £300 per return ticket as a result of the expansion increasing competition.

Speaking recently, Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kayewelcomed an announcement by Vietnam Airlines that it was transferring its operation to Heathrow.

He said the move “underlines that airlines can only make flights to many long-haul destinations viable from a hub airport like Heathrow.

“Only by expanding Heathrowcan we add direct flights to the world’s growing cities, increase our exports and connect all of the UK to global growth.

“Expanding Heathrowwill help Britain win the race for growth.”