Chancellor Rachel Reeves has hinted that the UK government may back a long-debated third runway at Heathrow Airport, emphasizing that “sustainable aviation and economic growth go hand in hand.”
While stopping short of confirming the decision, Reeves suggested that advances in aviation technology could help mitigate environmental concerns tied to airport expansion.
Speaking to the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Reeves declined to comment directly on “speculation” regarding Heathrow’s expansion but said the government would outline its position “in due course.”
However, she acknowledged the potential benefits of a third runway, noting that it could reduce air traffic congestion over London and facilitate smoother landings.
The chancellor’s comments come ahead of an expected major announcement next week in which she is anticipated to back airport expansion as part of the government’s broader economic growth strategy.
The Labour government has already signaled its intent to fast-track housing and commercial developments near railway hubs and streamline environmental impact assessments to accelerate infrastructure projects.
Reeves also struck an upbeat tone regarding the UK’s economic outlook, contrasting with previous government warnings about fiscal constraints.
She asserted that “low growth is not our destiny” and vowed to go “further and faster” in removing barriers that hinder investment.
When asked whether Heathrow would feature in next week’s announcement, the chancellor avoided a direct answer but pointed to recent approvals for London City Airport and Stansted expansions.
“That will be good for investment and trade in our country and also good for families wanting to go on cheap holidays,” she said.
However, potential Heathrow expansion has long faced criticism from environmental groups and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has argued that it could worsen air quality, increase noise pollution, and hinder efforts to achieve net-zero emissions.
Responding to these concerns, Reeves insisted that the aviation sector has undergone significant technological advancements, including sustainable aviation fuel and electric aircraft developments.
“A lot has changed in terms of aviation,” she said. “I believe that clean energy and reducing our carbon emissions are good for economic growth.”
While no official decision has been made, the prospect of a third runway at Heathrow remains a contentious issue.
Previous plans for expansion were halted due to legal challenges and environmental opposition, but industry leaders have continued to lobby for the project, arguing it would strengthen the UK’s global trade links and enhance the country’s competitiveness.
As the government prepares its economic strategy announcement, attention will be focused on whether Heathrow expansion is formally endorsed—and if so, how ministers plan to address the environmental and logistical challenges that have plagued the project for years.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
