Heathrow expects government third runway update in autumn

Heathrow expects an update from government on its third runway plans in the autumn as it hailed the seventh consecutive month as Europe’s “most punctual” airport.

The London hub reiterated that its expansion scheme includes an upgrade to the M25 motorway that can be delivered without disrupting traffic flows.

The airport, revealing record July throughput of 7.9 million passengers, said: “Heathrow is ready to mobilise, and the government will now decide the next steps, with an update expected in the autumn. 

“Our proposal can be delivered within the deadline set by government to secure planning permission by 2029 and builds on years of policy support, including backing from the Airports Commission and cross-party Parliamentary support. 

"Our plans are designed to minimise disruption to local communities, requiring fewer homes to be purchased and less noise impact for those around Heathrow than other proposals.  

"An expanded Heathrow would give passengers lower air fares, more choice and more destinations.”

Heathrow had its busiest day on record on August 1 with 270,8869 passengers, with 95% waiting less than five minutes at security.

July’s performance included the busiest month ever for North American traffic, up 0.9% on the same month last year. 

“This growth was boosted by increased demand around US Independence Day on 4 July, with a fortnight of elevated traffic both before and after the celebration period,” the airport said.

Heathrow hailed its position as Europe’s most punctual major hub, ahead of Amsterdam Schiphol, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Paris Charles de Gaulle. 

"We are consistently outperforming other major European and UK airports, often by over 20% on a daily basis,” the airport noted. “This performance reflects the results of our collective efforts, made possible through close collaboration with our airline partners and the wider airport community.”

Chief executive Thomas Woldbye said: "It’s that time of year when everyone is looking forward to their well-earned summer breaks and Heathrow is proud to play our part in delivering smooth and reliable journeys. 

“We continue to break records as Europe’s largest and most punctual hub - adding value for our airline partners and passengers. 

"To build on this success, we’ve set out a 100% privately financed plan to expand Heathrow, deliver extraordinary service, create wider and better choices for our customers, and grow the UK economy.”