A leading UK transport body is urging the government to rethink its approach to airport expansion, arguing that future growth should be planned across the entire country rather than centred on Heathrow.
In a new policy review, the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK (CILT(UK)) says the UK’s aviation strategy should make better use of existing capacity at regional airports while balancing economic growth, environmental goals and infrastructure investment.
The report was submitted as part of the government’s review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS). While CILT(UK) welcomed the launch of a consultation on Heathrow’s expansion plans, it said the wider UK airport network deserves far greater consideration.
Chris Tarry, Chair of CILT(UK)’s Aviation Policy Group, said decisions on airport expansion should reflect the needs of the entire aviation system rather than focusing on a single airport. He argued that future investment should be guided by regional demand, economic value and environmental impact.
According to the report, the UK already has enough existing and potential airport capacity to meet expected growth over the next two decades without an immediate need for a third runway at Heathrow. However, it says Heathrow expansion should remain an option if it can demonstrate clear economic benefits, environmental responsibility and a viable funding model.
Air cargo is another area the report says has been overlooked. CILT(UK) believes government policy places too much emphasis on Heathrow while failing to fully consider the wider freight network, including regional cargo airports, integrators, e-commerce growth and trucked air cargo.
The report also warns that road and rail connections could become a major obstacle to future airport growth unless investment in surface transport keeps pace. It adds that any updated aviation strategy should align with the UK’s 2050 net-zero target by considering measures such as sustainable aviation fuel, operational improvements and other carbon-reduction technologies.
CILT(UK) says it will submit a full response to the government’s consultation before the September 1 deadline, calling for a more balanced national aviation strategy that supports both passenger and cargo growth across the UK.
