Heathrow has launched the next phase of Airspace and Future Operations public consultation and is urging local communities to help shape the airport’s plans for the existing two runways and as part of the proposed expansion.

On 25 June 2018, an overwhelming majority of MPs voted to approve the Airports National Policy Statement, which provides support for Heathrow expansion.

The launch of the latest phase of consultation, which will run until 4 March 2019, is intended to keep Heathrow on schedule to deliver expansion, which is part of the key trading infrastructure that Britain will need to succeed post-Brexit.

The eight-week consultation will seek feedback on several key topics – airspace change for an expanded Heathrow; airspace change to make better use of the existing two runways; and future operations for an expanded Heathrow.

It is intended to consider local factors in various geographic areas when designing future flight paths, designing new flight paths for aircraft arrivals on existing two runways, and for operating three runways in the future, including managing noise; respite through runway and airspace alternation; directional preference and night flights.

During the consultation period, more than 30 consultation events will be held across local boroughs where people can learn about the plans, ask questions and provide feedback.

Heathrow held the first consultation on expansion from January to March 2018.

It will hold another consultation in June on its plans for expansion, including the new runway and associated physical infrastructure, besides presenting options to mitigate and manage the effects of the airport’s growth.

Heathrow expansion will be privately financed.

Heathrow executive director for expansionEmma Gilthorpe said:“Heathrow’s aim is to design a sustainable, fair and more efficient future airport while connecting the UK to global growth.

“It is crucial that our plans maximise the benefits of expansion across the country, including for the communities closest to us – and working in partnership with our neighbours is just one way of ensuring they do so.

“We are committed to delivering expansion responsibly, and we encourage everyone to have their say and take part.”

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Image: CGI of Heathrow Airport. Photo: Courtesy of LHR Airports Limited.