Airlines say Heathrow expansion is the right solution for the UK economy

03 February 2015 – In its closing submission to the Airports Commission today, the Board of Airline Representatives in the UK (BAR UK), representing over 70 airlines, has stated that expansion at Heathrow is the right solution to drive the UK’s economy.

BAR UK chief executive, Dale Keller, said “The terms of reference set by the government to the Airports Commission are clear – to maintain the UK’s position as Europe’s most important aviation hub. We have therefore set out our rationale to the Airports Commission on why most airlines conclude that a carefully cost controlled expansion at Heathrow will deliver a far greater return than expansion at Gatwick and is the only solution that can achieve the government’s primary objectives.

“The major cost of funding airport expansion will ultimately be borne by passengers through airport charges passed on via airfares, not by the UK taxpayer. Therefore, it is essential that additional capacity is built where the consumer demand exists and that the affordability and commercial business case will allow airlines to realise the full potential for the UK.”

The full BAR UK response to the Airports Commission Public Consultation can be found on this link to the BAR UK website.