A decision on whether to expand Heathrow or Gatwick has been delayed again.
The government said there will no decision until after the election of a new Conservative leader, following David Cameron’s resignation last week.
The Airports Commission recommended last July that Heathrow be expanded. A decision was meant to be made last December but this was delayed due to the mayoral elections.
Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin, who yesterday said the government is still committed to expansion, said he can’t see a decision being made for at least a few months.
"Being realistic, I cannot foresee an announcement until at least October," he said. "[However], the government is fully committed to delivering this important infrastructure project."
Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate said: "It has become ever more clear that only Gatwick can deliver a new runway for Britain and the growth the economy needs.
“Aviation is changing fast and Gatwick has now entered the premier league of airports.
"In uncertain times and after decades of delay, only Gatwick can now give Britain certainty that airport expansion can finally happen.
"Gatwick can have a spade in the ground by 2020 and the first planes flying from a new runway in 2025,” said Wingate.
Chief executive of the London First business group, Baroness Jo Valentine, said: "Clearly this is disappointing.
"Nothing can be more vital for a trading island than sufficient air links, especially after the referendum result.
"There should be no question that whoever takes over from David Cameron must keep the Government's commitment to open a new runway by 2030.”
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