The head of Emirates has warned that Heathrow Airport could face a legal challenge if airlines are forced to cover expansion costs. The debate over funding a third runway has intensified, with concerns about rising landing charges. Airlines argue that passengers will ultimately bear the financial burden.
Sir Tim Clark, Emirates’ president, strongly supports adding a third runway. However, he cautioned against placing the financial strain on airlines. “This could end up in legal challenges if you are not careful,” he stated. He believes a fair solution must benefit all stakeholders.
Clark highlighted the urgent need for expansion due to soaring demand. Heathrow handled a record 83.9 million passengers last year, signaling strong post-pandemic recovery. With increasing air traffic, he argues that boosting capacity is essential for the future.
Despite government approval in January, questions remain about how the expansion will be funded. Estimates suggest the project could cost around £20 billion. Some fear Heathrow will shift the financial burden onto airlines, making it harder for them to stay profitable. Clark warned that some airlines may not survive if costs continue to rise.
Concerns over Heathrow’s pricing model have sparked growing opposition. Earlier this month, a coalition of airlines and businesses demanded urgent regulatory reforms. The Heathrow Reimagined campaign, backed by major airlines like Virgin Atlantic and British Airways’ parent company IAG, is pushing for change.
Critics claim Heathrow operates as a monopoly, prioritizing profits over passengers and carriers. Airlines already pay £1.1 billion more annually in landing charges than at other major European hubs. At the same time, they argue that service levels have declined.
The campaign has gained momentum, attracting support from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). American Airlines recently became the first non-UK airline to back the initiative.
A spokesperson for Heathrow Reimagined expressed concerns about the expansion’s financial impact. “Despite claims of a privately funded project, passengers will ultimately pay through higher charges,” they stated.
With tensions rising, the debate over Heathrow’s expansion remains unresolved. Airlines insist that any funding plan must be fair and sustainable. Without proper oversight, they fear passengers and carriers will continue to bear unnecessary costs.
Stay tuned to London Pulse News for updates on this evolving issue.
