Expansion at Heathrow could boost every UK nation and region with more supply chain opportunities, connectivity, investment and tourism.
Heathrow expansion is not a choice between the economy and the environment – we are committed to delivering for both. Built on decades of planning, evidence and consultation with local communities, expansion goes hand in hand with our firm commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
Through our sustainability strategy, Connecting People and Planet, Heathrow is investing to improve air quality, protect nature and tackle noise, ensuring the airport and surrounding communities are great places to live and work. Leading climate and aviation experts, including the International Civil Aviation Organization and the UK Climate Change Committee, agree that net zero aviation by 2050 is achievable, even with future growth in passenger numbers.
We have made strong progress since 2019 on our People and Planet commitments, from reducing carbon in the air by 10%, incentivising airlines to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel and the quietest aircraft at Heathrow, to increasing passenger and colleague use of public transport to access the airport. Our proven track record to make progress on our environmental commitments, while serving record breaking passenger numbers shows our ability to deliver on environmental commitments with growing passenger demand.
Heathrow’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) incentive is a multi‑million‑pound programme designed to accelerate the switch from traditional jet fuel to cleaner, lower carbon alternatives by helping airlines cover the higher cost of SAF. In 2026, Heathrow has allocated over £80 million to narrow the price gap between kerosene and SAF, making it more commercially viable for airlines to use SAF. This support enables Heathrow to target 5.6% SAF use in 2026, going 2% above the UK Government’s 3.6% mandate, which could deliver around 350,000 tonnes of SAF and reduce carbon emissions by roughly 600,000 tonnes in a single year. Heathrow aims to increase the uplift of SAF to 11% by 2030.
The LHR Incentive Programme will support the SAF market’s increasing momentum, allowing airlines like Emirates to take advantage of its availability and make it more commercially viable.
Read more about how expansion can deliver for economic growth and the environment at the same time.
