Heathrow, Gatwick could get expansion green light

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will reportedly announce support for a controversial third runway at London Heathrow, and could give the green light to bringing a second Gatwick runway into regular use.

Additionally, London Luton Airport plans to increase passenger capacity.

Reeves is understood to be ready to signal support for the projects, likely during a Davos speech next week, the BBC reports.

The Labour government has made economic growth a priority.

While unwilling to ‘respond to speculation,’ the government said: “We are determined to get our economy moving and secure the long-term future of the UK’s aviation sector.”

“All expansion proposals must demonstrate they contribute to economic growth, which is central to our Plan for Change.”

Heathrow Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye recently said the airport needs a ‘clear steer’ from the government before the end of 2025 on its third runway plans.

“We’re planning to unlock capacity by improving and upgrading our existing infrastructure, while also looking at potential options to deliver a third runway in line with strict tests on carbon, noise and air quality,” the airport said.