Heathrow Airport approves planning application for third runway as 2026 decisions loom large

Credit: Heathrow Airport

London Heathrow Airport (LHR) has approved new investment to begin work on a planning application for a third runway, marking a significant step for the UK’s flagship infrastructure project. Expansion is expected to attract billions in private investment, enhance airline networks, increase competition, and strengthen the UK’s global trading links.

The Government aims to secure planning permission by 2029, with first flights from a third runway planned within a decade. Shareholders strongly support the project, which will only proceed once regulatory and policy frameworks are firmly in place. Key decisions in 2026 will determine the pace of progress.

In spring, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will clarify how early costs can be recovered. Over summer, the Department for Transport (DfT) will publish a draft Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), and the CAA will decide on the long-term regulatory model, shaping private investment. Parliament is expected to review the final ANPS in autumn, establishing the planning framework for the project.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “Heathrow expansion is taking another significant step forward today as our Board greenlights starting work on the planning application. This decision means we are on track to secure planning permission by 2029 and reflects Ministers’ renewed commitment to expansion and progress made to speed up delivery of the project to boost UK economic growth.

“Heathrow expansion is a critical national project and a central part of our journey to make Heathrow an extraordinary airport, fit for the future. Maintaining momentum will mean the CAA and Ministers remain focussed on securing the benefits of the project by meeting vital milestones in 2026 that are essential to enabling the next phase of delivery.”