CILT report calls for broader national approach to UK airport expansion

A new report from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT UK) has called on the government to move away from what it describes as a “Heathrow-focused approach to airport capacity” and instead adopt a broader national strategy for aviation expansion.

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While welcoming the recently launched consultation on Heathrow expansion framework from the DfT, CILT argues that future aviation growth should be considered as part of a wider UK connectivity framework, with greater attention given to the role of regional airports and the economic contribution they can make across different parts of the country. According to CILT, concentrating expansion policy too heavily around a single hub airport risks overlooking wider opportunities within the national airport network.

Debate over UK airport expansion has historically centred on Heathrow because of its role as the country's largest hub airport and its importance for international connectivity. Heathrow argues that additional capacity would strengthen trade links, increase connectivity and unlock broader economic benefits.

However, the wider debate is increasingly broadening beyond the question of additional runway capacity alone. Recent government analysis has raised questions around the scale of economic benefits associated with Heathrow expansion while also highlighting environmental and social impacts linked to major infrastructure development.

CILT's report suggests future planning should consider aviation within a wider transport and infrastructure context, including surface access links and the interaction between airports and regional economies.

Chris Tarry, Chair of the Aviation Policy Group at CILT (UK) said, “Airport expansion policy must be considered in the context of the whole UK aviation system and not restricted to one region. Our experts have considered all the facts and what is best for the nation as a whole. We firmly believe decisions should be based on objective evidence, regional demand, economic benefit and environmental impacts – ensuring that growth is not automatically associated with Heathrow alone.

“The UK has significant untapped potential at many airports, alongside growing opportunities in air cargo and regional connectivity. A revised ANPS provides the opportunity to establish a more balanced and nationally integrated aviation strategy.”