The competition watchdog has pushed back a decision on an appeals over Heathrow’s price cap from August to October.
British Airways, Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic were granted permission by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) earlier in the month to appeal against the aviation regulator’s decision on long-term charges at the London hub.
A counter appeal by Heathrow was also approved against the March ruling by the Civil Aviation Authority.
The CMA appointed a group of decision-makers to determine the appeals on May 12.
The period within which the CMA was to have determined the appeals was due to expire on August 22.
However, the group has decided that the period within which the CMA must determine the appeals should be extended by eight weeks.
The revised deadline for the CMA’s determination of the appeals will now expire on October 17.
The CMA said: “In taking this decision, and following consultation with the parties to the appeals who raised no objections, the group had regard to the number of appeals brought, the scope and complexity of the appeals including the number of grounds raised and the number of parties concerned, as well as the necessity to allow sufficient time to take full and proper account of all evidence received from the appellants, respondent and any interveners.
“The group is satisfied that there are good reasons for extending the period of time within which the CMA must determine the appeals.”