The benefits of expanding Heathrow
Heathrow is the UK’s Gateway to Growth, connecting people, businesses and goods to the world.
There is a reason that expanding Heathrow is supported by Chambers of Commerce, regional airports, airlines, unions and businesses and people from Hillingdon and Hounslow to the Highlands and Holyhead.
It is because a third runway and the associated infrastructure would create jobs and economic opportunity for every region and nation in the UK, boosting tourism, connectivity and trade. It would cement Heathrow’s position as a leading hub airport and support the UK’s global competitiveness. Passengers and airlines will benefit from greater choice of routes, lower fares and improved service.
Heathrow, the UK’s largest port by value, supports £200bn of annual trade. Frontier Economics says expansion could grow GDP by 0.43% by 2050, create thousands of jobs and widen global access for UK businesses.
Expanding Heathrow will boost every UK nation and region with more supply chain opportunities, connectivity, investment and tourism. Around 60% of the economic benefit will be felt outside London and the South East.
A third runway isn’t a choice between growth and the environment. Heathrow is committed to net zero by 2050 and has a plan to get there.
Heathrow is the UK’s largest single-site employer with 80,000 jobs and strong local ties. Expanding Heathrow would bring more local growth, jobs and skills, with a commitment to listen and engage.
Passengers will get more choice, more direct travel and lower air fares. And airlines will benefit from significant growth opportunities and more efficient airport operations.
Expanding Heathrow will be fully privately financed. Plans focus on value for money, delivering a sustainable airport with good service and more opportunity for passengers, airlines and the local community.
The value of goods processed through Heathrow every year is greater than Felixstowe and Southampton combined. Unmatched global connections from Heathrow enable exporters from all across the country to get their world-class goods – from Scottish salmon to Cornish cream to life-saving medicines - into global marketplaces to help grow their businesses.
Below you’ll find resources detailing how we play our part in boosting economic growth and support businesses in every region and nation across the UK.
Exporting Excellence reports showcase how Heathrow supports businesses across the UK to boost exports, deliver jobs and generate economic growth.
This report outlines our continued investment, highlighting the impact of this year’s £1.1 billion investment - helping to keep our airport running and enhancing it for the future.
Heathrow is calling for SMEs in every corner of the UK to come forward and pitch their products to the world, with the relaunch of its World of Opportunity Programme.
The Heathrow Business Coalition brings together companies trading, retailing and thriving through the UK’s only hub airport.
