Heathrow is to step up its campaign for expansion by telling the Airports Commission it is the only option that can connect every part of the UK to long-haul growth markets.
The UK’s largest airport said its hub status allows it to connect to long-haul business destinations, making it “critical” for economic growth.
Heathrow claimed this is not viable from other airports in the UK, giving it a “unique advantage over other options for airport expansion”.
Airports Commission to make decision on expansion options in 2015In its submission to the Airports Commission later this month, Heathrow will set out how new rail and air links will deliver benefits to passengers and business across the whole country.
The Airports Commission, headed by former CBI boss Sir Howard Davies, is currently looking at two possible expansion options at Heathrow, as well as a possible second runway at Gatwick.
The commission will make its final recommendation in summer 2015 after the next general election.
“If we want growth for the future we need connections to the world’s fast growing markets and that means a hub airport like Heathrow,” said Heathrow’s CEO Colin Matthews, who is stepping down later this year.
“We also need to bring the benefits of additional trade, tourism and economic growth to the whole country, not just to London and the South-East. That is why we are setting out our ambition to connect Heathrow to every economic centre in Britain.”
Last week (April 28) Heathrow submitted “refined proposals” on its bid to the Airports Commission for the building of a third runway.
The airport said the altered proposals reflect input from recent public consultations.