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London Luton Airport sustainability report reveals record jobs and strong local economic impact

Posted: 16 July 2025 | | No comments yet

London Luton Airport’s 2024 Sustainability Report shows record employment, major carbon cuts and strong investment in local communities.

Luton Airport jobs

Unedited Photos Sent Live from Camera - Luton Town at Kenilworth Road, Luton, England on the 21 September 2024. Photo by Duncan Jack / PRiME Media Images

London Luton Airport (LLA) has published its 2024 Sustainability Report, revealing that the airport now supports a record 14,000 jobs in and around the local area. The report highlights LLA’s ongoing progress in creating social value, reducing environmental impacts, and strengthening its role as a major economic contributor.

Luton Airport jobs reach record high as sustainability efforts drive local economic growth

Chief Executive Officer Alberto Martin said: “As one of the UK’s busiest airports, London Luton Airport is ideally positioned to drive economic growth, support local communities and create meaningful and enduring opportunities for local people. Our partnership with the airport owner, Luton Rising, is a shining example of the public-private ownership model, with each passenger helping Luton Rising provide industry-leading community investment which has exceeded £500 million.”

The airport spent 60% of its supply chain budget locally last year, with £110 million directed to over 320 businesses within a 25-mile radius. Its total economic contribution reached £830 million. The Government has also approved Luton Rising’s long-term growth scheme, which could create up to 11,000 new jobs and add £1.5 billion in annual economic benefits by the mid-2040s.

Environmental achievements include reducing airport carbon emissions by 27% since 2019, recycling 82% of waste, and investing in sustainable operational vehicles. Sixty percent of aircraft based at LLA are now next-generation models, described as the cleanest and quietest in Europe. The airport has attained Level 4 Airport Carbon Accreditation, reflecting its commitment to aligning with global climate goals.

In terms of social sustainability, more than half of new employees hired in 2024 came from LU1 to LU7 postcodes. Over £180,000 was donated to local initiatives via the Community Trust Fund and Greener Future Fund, benefiting more than 19,000 people. Additionally, £300,000 was raised over four years for charity partners.

David Vazquez, Head of Sustainability, said: “London Luton Airport recognises the responsibility to support our neighbours and local communities in socially impactful ways, including the decarbonisation of our operations and our encouragement to all airport partners to do the same.”

Nick Platts, Managing Director of Luton Rising, added: “It’s vital that our successful partnership with the operator takes an approach to sustainability that goes beyond environmental considerations. For us, what matters most is the ability to continue growing a successful airport eco-system for Luton and the region.”

To access the full report, please click here.

 

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