- IATA supports expansion, but wants greater airline input and cost control.
- Heathrow operator HAL criticised over poor service and high passenger charges.
- Alternative bid by Arora Group seen as a potentially better, cheaper option
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has backed the UK government’s decision to expand Heathrow Airport, but warns that Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL) may not be the best fit to lead the project.
In a statement reported by Eko Hot Blog, IATA acknowledged the economic benefits the expansion could bring but stressed that performance, affordability, and accountability must take center stage. The aviation body criticised HAL’s past handling of airport operations, citing high charges and repeated service disruptions.
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Heathrow’s proposed expansion includes a new 3,500-meter northwest runway, upgrades to terminals, and tunneling the M25 motorway. The airport projects an increase in capacity from 84 million to 150 million passengers annually, with over 100,000 jobs and 30 new daily routes expected by 2040.
However, IATA emphasized that these benefits must not come at the expense of efficiency. It argued that HAL’s previous failures such as costly delays and an embarrassing shutdown earlier in March highlight the need for stricter oversight.
A rival plan submitted by the Arora Group proposes a shorter runway (2,800 meters) that would avoid disrupting the M25. Some major airlines, including British Airways’ parent company IAG, have expressed interest in this alternative, citing lower potential costs.
IATA insists that the UK’s future as a global aviation hub hinges not just on physical infrastructure but on fair access, sustainable fees, and accountability to airlines and passengers.
Environmental groups and some government figures have pushed back against the expansion, raising concerns about emissions, noise, and its alignment with net-zero targets.
IATA, which represents over 80% of global air traffic, concluded that while Heathrow’s growth is critical, airlines must be part of the decision-making process to ensure long-term success.
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