Heathrow begins work on third runway planning application ahead of key 2026 policy decisions

Heathrow Airport has confirmed it is moving forward with early work on its planning application for a third runway, marking a significant procedural milestone for its major expansion programme.

image: Heathrow Airport

The airport says its board has approved new investment to begin preparations for the planning application, despite uncertainty over future regulatory and policy decisions that will determine whether construction can proceed. The move comes as critical milestones —including announcements from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Department for Transport (DfT) — are expected throughout 2026.

Heathrow argues that expansion remains a key driver of long‑term economic growth, with the potential to attract billions of pounds of private investment, boost competition, strengthen airline networks and enhance the UK’s global trading links if it progresses.

Under the Government’s current timetable, the airport aims to secure planning permission by 2029 and bring the third runway into operation within a decade, although delivery remains contingent on the establishment of appropriate regulatory and policy frameworks.

In the spring of 2026, Heathrow said it expects clarity from the Civil Aviation Authority on cost recovery mechanisms, followed in the summer by a draft Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) from the Department for Transport. Later in the year, Parliament is expected to be asked to decide on the final ANPS, which will set the planning framework for the project.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye, commenting on the development said, “Heathrow expansion is taking another significant step forward today as our Board greenlights starting work on the planning application. This decision means we are on track to secure planning permission by 2029 and reflects Ministers’ renewed commitment to expansion and progress made to speed up delivery of the project to boost UK economic growth.

“Heathrow expansion is a critical national project and a central part of our journey to make Heathrow an extraordinary airport, fit for the future. Maintaining momentum will mean the CAA and Ministers remain focussed on securing the benefits of the project by meeting vital milestones in 2026 that are essential to enabling the next phase of delivery.”

Heathrow’s announcement aligns with its broader airport investment activity, including an ongoing £1.3bn upgrade programme for 2026 focused on terminal improvements, baggage systems and operational resilience, as the airport responds to record growth in passenger and cargo volumes.