Public support for airport expansion in the south east of England is increasing, according to a government report.
The ‘Public experiences of and attitudes towards air travel’ study shows that people living near Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, London City and Stansted are more likely to be in favour of expansion at their local airport than they were in 2010.
Almost half (47%) of respondents said they were “in favour” or “strongly in favour” of the expansion of their nearest airport compared to just 20% against.
This is an increase in support for local expansion relative to the 2010 survey, which saw 41% in favour and 25% against.
The government polled 1,038 members of the public in March 2014.
CEO of Heathrow, John Holland-Kaye said: ‘This independent study confirms that support for airport expansion is growing. More people understand the benefits of a third runway to local communities including the creation of 50,000 more jobs, improved public transport and thriving local businesses.”
Read an analysis of Davies commission’s interim report of UK airports