Heathrow expansion to create 108,000 jobs, airport says

London Heathrow Airport said its expansion plan is expected to generate over 108,000 jobs across the UK.

The airport described the project as a national undertaking involving every part of the country, privately funded at no cost to taxpayers. The figure was released as the government's consultation on the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement concluded and the Transport Committee began its inquiry.

According to Heathrow, expansion would create jobs, improve skills, and unlock billions of pounds in additional private investment across UK supply chains. British steel manufacturers were cited among the industries expected to benefit. Expansion is supported by UK Steel and trade unions including GMB, Unite and Community, the airport said.

A third runway would raise capacity to up to 756,000 aircraft movements and 150 million passengers annually. Heathrow said it is currently full, hindering the UK's competitiveness.

Thomas Woldbye, Heathrow CEO, said the airport wants to support the government's ambition for growth in every postcode and unlock what has been holding the country back. He added that Heathrow is ready to show private investment can work alongside government to revitalise British industry.