Heathrow airport runway expansion could add 250 to family fare, airlines warn

"The planned third runway at Heathrow, which comes with a 33 billion price tag, includes constructing a 3,500-metre runway and new additions to Terminal 5, which aim to accommodate another 66 million passengers per year. Heathrow will also invest 15 billion in upgrading its existing infrastructure. The construction of a third runway at Heathrow carries at 33 billion price tag Airlines have expressed concern that the landing charges at Heathrow, which are the highest in the world, will end up reimbursing investors for the project."

"According to The Times, airline bosses have analysed data that shows the project could add at least 60-65 on average to ticket prices, resulting in an excess cost of 250 for a family of four. Executives from British Airways' parent company, IAG, met with senior staff at Downing Street last week to share these concerns, Whitehall sources told the paper. It was reported that they met with Varun Chandra, one of Sir Keir Starmer's senior advisers, and discussed how plans might affect economic growth."

Heathrow plans a third runway and Terminal 5 additions to carry another 66 million passengers, including a 3,500-metre runway and infrastructure upgrades. The project carries a 33 billion construction cost and a further 15 billion for upgrading existing facilities. Airlines warn that higher landing charges to repay investors could raise average ticket prices by about 60–65, adding roughly 250 for a family of four. Senior executives from major carriers met with Downing Street advisers and a campaign letter co-signed by IAG, Virgin Atlantic, and IATA urged urgent government engagement, warning of risks to competitiveness and cost of living.

Read at www.standard.co.uk