CAA consults on new regulatory model to support Heathrow expansion plans

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has begun reviewing how Heathrow Airport might be regulated if its proposed third runway goes ahead – a move that comes in the wake of the government’s decision to back the expansion.

In a newly published working paper, the CAA sets out a consultation on “regulatory model options for supporting efficient and timely Heathrow expansion.”

The CAA says that changing Heathrow’s regulatory model may be necessary to support the scale of growth envisaged, while ensuring spending on expansion remains efficient and consumer interests protected.

Selina Chadha, Group Director of Consumer and Markets at the CAA, said, “We recognise the importance of the efficient and effective expansion of capacity at Heathrow airport to the wider economy, airlines and consumers, and welcome the Government’s support of our review.” She added, “We are seeking to develop the regulatory framework to both deliver the best outcomes for consumers and support the Government’s timetable for the delivery of expansion.”

The CAA’s move follows the government’s formal backing of Heathrow’s third‑runway proposal, submitted by Heathrow Airport. Under that plan, a new north‑western runway — part of a broader £33 billion expansion project — will require rerouting part of the M25 motorway to allow construction.

Having the CAA review regulatory structure now is viewed as critical: it could affect how expansion costs are recovered (e.g. via airport charges), how long the project takes, and how the interests of consumers — in terms of cost, service quality, and transparency — are safeguarded.

The working paper invites stakeholders, including airlines and consumers, to submit their views on possible regulatory options. The CAA intends to publish a recommendation on the regulatory model in spring 2026.