Institution responds to Airports Commission's shortlist for expanding UK capacity

“If the UK economy is to remain globally competitive, it is vital that we address the UK’s looming airport capacity crunch."

Philippa Oldham, Head of Transport and Manufacturing at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said in response to the shortlist for expanding UK airport capacity by the Airports Commission:

 “If the UK economy is to remain globally competitive, it is vital that we address the UK’s looming airport capacity crunch. The South East as a whole is predicted to reach full airport capacity by 2030 if nothing is done to remedy the problem.

“This shortlist offers some much welcome clarity on the country’s options. In drawing up this shortlist, the Airports Commission has rightly prioritised market demand and cost-effectiveness. Gatwick is now one of the shortlisted options, reflecting the rise in demand for budget airline flights.

 "But while the shortlist addresses the shortfall in aviation capacity, it is also vital that action is taken to ensure that the rest of our transport infrastructure can cope with this projected increase.”