London Heathrow Airport colleagues and families back expansion as polling shows strong local community support

Credit: London Heathrow Airport

Polling has revealed that support for London Heathrow Airport’s (LHR) expansion outweighs opposition in eight of its nine neighbouring boroughs, with the ninth showing equal levels of support and opposition. Two thirds of respondents said it is positive living near Heathrow, while more than 90% of those in favour highlighted the economic benefits a third runway would bring.

Why is there support for Heathrow Airport expansion? 

Heathrow colleagues have spoken about wanting their children to benefit from more opportunities at an expanded airport. From firefighters and security officers to engineers and airside safety teams, today’s workforce hopes the next generation can follow in their footsteps and begin rewarding careers.

Among them are Saira Samiy and Aqeel Ahmed, both working in airport security and living in Hayes. They want their children, Laiba, 12, and Zuraib, 8, to have similar opportunities. They said: “Living so close and having their mum and dad work at the airport, Heathrow is a big part of our family’s life. It’s a busy and exciting place, and having an even bigger airport next door with more jobs to choose from would be great for our children.”

Aidan O’Connell, an Airside Operations Officer from Bracknell, recently introduced his daughter Connie, 5, to life on the airfield. He said: “Aviation really is unique and working out on the airfield at one of the world’s busiest airports is a special thing. So many doors get opened when you land a career at Heathrow, I’d love my daughter to have the same opportunities when she grows up.”

Heathrow’s Chief People Officer, Jo Butler, emphasised the benefits of expansion for local families. She said: “Living near Heathrow is a first-class ticket to a lifelong career. We hear time and again that it’s what our neighbours value most and we are committed to making sure as many people as possible get those benefits. Expanding Heathrow means giving the next generation even more opportunities to learn and work here and play their part in keeping the UK connected to the world.”

Heathrow is the UK’s largest single site of employment, with more than 80,000 people working at the airport. Around 10% are directly employed by Heathrow, while the rest work for airlines, handlers, retailers and specialist suppliers across numerous sectors.

The Heathrow Employment and Skills Academy has been connecting local students and jobseekers to opportunities for 20 years, offering school outreach, work experience, CV advice and interview workshops. Heathrow has also pledged to deliver 500 local apprenticeships by 2030 through its shared apprenticeship scheme.

The airport continues to commit to the London Living Wage across its supply chain and provides a dedicated hub to help neighbours benefit from the economic and employment opportunities created on their doorstep.

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