The CEO of Heathrow has said he has been “overwhelmed” by support from businesses, politicians and airlines over its airport expansion bid.
John Holland-Kaye said the UK can have confidence that expanding Heathrow is “not only best for Britain but also backed by Britain”.
The Heathrow boss was speaking as the airport revealed last month was its busiest ever January with a record 5.45 million passengers travelling through its terminals – an increase of 1.3 per cent in the same period last year.
The airport said larger, fuller, quieter aircraft continued to be a driver for passenger growth. Seats per aircraft increase 2 per cent and passengers per aircraft rose 2.2 per cent.
“I have been overwhelmed by the support from our local community, businesses, Chambers of Commerce and politicians all over the country,” said Holland-Kaye.
Last week, low-cost airline Easyjet came out in support of expanding Heathrow despite being Gatwick’s largest carrier.
The independent ‘Back Heathrow’ campaign celebrated its 80,000 supporter as it delivered its consultation response to the Airport Commission, which will give its recommendations to the government on which airport to expand after the election in May.
Yesterday, Holland-Kaye spoke at the British Chambers of Commerce annual conference where he called for MPs to stop “dithering on airport expansion”.
“We need to make the right choice to secure the prosperity we have enjoyed for future generations,” he said.
“This is a competition Britain could win, Heathrow is the best-located hub in the world, with 95% of the global economy within range of a direct flight, however the UK is starting to fall behind.
“Dubai is overtaking Heathrow in the number of international passengers carried and Paris with more long-haul destinations.”