More than 30 council leaders from around the UK calling on the government back Heathrow expansion.
The leaders of 34 councils, including Oxfordshire, Harrow, Newcastle, Neath Port Talbot and Glasgow, have written to transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin urging approval for a third runway at the west London hub.
The letters says that in “uncertain economic times” following the Brexit vote, investment in infrastructure is even more important to support growth across the country.
They say a green light for expansion at Heathrow would create skilled jobs and provide an economic boost to their local economies.
Heathrow as the national hub should be able to build on the success of Britain’s network of airports, helping to connect local exporters to growing markets overseas.
The airport’s chief executive of Heathrow, John Holland-Kaye, said: “Council leaders from across the country recognise expansion at Heathrow will benefit their local economies by creating skilled jobs and connecting exporters to growing markets overseas.
“Their support is further evidence that the next prime minister has the opportunity to make the right choice in the whole of Britain’s interest by expanding Heathrow.”
Lobbying for airport expansion is expected to accelerate with Theresa May taking over as prime minister instead of a nine-week Conservative leadership race following the withdrawal of rival Andrea Leadsom.
McLoughlin had previously said a decision was not expected until at least October following a series of delays.
Gatwick claims it can provide a second runway by 2025 at less than half the cost of expanding Heathrow and with lower environmental impact.