Heathrow third runway

Transport policy statement 09/02

In January 2009, the Labour Government gave the go-ahead for a third runway and sixth terminal at London Heathrow Airport. They argued that the expansion of capacity at London’s largest airport was critical for the country’s long- term economic prosperity. However, this decision seems in conflict with the UK’s lauded commitments to ambitious emissions-reduction targets, most notably the legally binding commitment to reduce CO₂ emissions by 80% by 2050. In response to this decision the Institution published the following policy statement in 2009.

Since publication, the Coalition Government announced in its programme for government, that it would cancel the third runway at Heathrow.

Key recommendations

In 2009 the Institution of Mechanical Engineers welcomed the Labour Government’s announcement to support the building of a third runway at Heathrow on the rationale that it would ease current aircraft congestion. The need for aircraft to “stack” before landing and queue before take-off increases total journey time and environmental impact for no gain.

However, we stated that the expectations of the airport operators could be balanced against their own aim of reducing emissions by capping total aircraft emissions at current levels. In short:

• Heathrow should only be expanded if emissions are capped at current levels. This will encourage emissions gains through more efficient operating patterns, aircraft design, weight saving, improved engines and alternative fuels. At the moment the Government is proposing a limit on initial use of the third runway so that the total increase in fights does not exceed 125,000 a year;
• Government should further enhance investment in low-carbon transport that ensures there are truly competitive alternatives to short haul aviation

Download the full policy statement.

More in Transport policy.