UK Airport Capacity

This Assembly notes that the Government has established an independent Commission tasked with identifying and recommending options for the UK’s airport capacity and connectivity. An interim report expected in 2013 will make recommendations on immediate options to improve the use of existing runway capacity. The Assembly notes that the Commission won’t report on the substantive question of expanding Heathrow airport until after the 2015 General Election.

Given the importance of Heathrow airport and aviation policy to London, this Assembly calls on the Government to ensure the Commission publishes its final report before the 2015 General Election. This Assembly also reaffirms its longstanding opposition to any increase in flights at Heathrow, whether through mixed mode operation, night flights or the construction of a third runway. This Assembly would not want to see Heathrow Airport closed.