LCCI Statement on London Airports Expansion

Monday 27 January 2024

Karim Fatehi OBE, Chief Executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "We welcome the Chancellor's decision to support expansion of three of London's most important airports - Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton.

"Trade through airports is essential for London and the wider UK’s business community. Our Green Skies report shows that four in five London business leaders agree that air connectivity is vital to London’s global competitiveness, international trade, and economic growth. Expansion at all three airports will bring new trade routes and opportunities for London's business community to access a larger pool of visitors and tourists.

"All three airports are also supporters of LCCI's Green Skies initiative, which promotes environmentally sensitive growth in air travel and calls for new investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) to ensure a sustainable future for the air industry.

"Heathrow's role as a hub airport is crucial, connecting 239 destinations across 89 countries. Without more capacity, other European hubs will overtake Heathrow, impacting the UK economy and prosperity. 

"We are pleased to see the Government seizing these opportunities to boost economic growth and productivity for the entire UK at Gatwick, Luton and Heathrow. We now need to see close collaboration with the business community, especially the local business community near to Heathrow, to ensure the expansion is as smooth a process as possible."

ENDS