Travelers flying through Heathrow Airport may see ticket prices rise by approximately 15 pence starting in 2028, with costs projected to reach 30 pence in subsequent years. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has granted the airport permission to recover up to £320 million spent on the initial planning and design phases of its proposed third runway project.
In addition to its own costs, Heathrow is authorized to recoup £4.1 million incurred by the Arora Group’s "Heathrow West" project, an unsuccessful rival design. The regulator stated that these charges are intended to facilitate progress on the expansion while implementing safeguards to ensure cost efficiency and transparency for consumers.
Tim Johnson, the CAA’s director of consumers and markets, described the decision as a balance between advancing the expansion and protecting passengers from excessive financial burdens. However, the move has drawn criticism from consumer advocates. Rory Boland of Which? Travel noted that while the individual increases appear minor, they contribute to already high airport fees at a time when travel costs remain a concern for many.
Airlines have frequently expressed opposition to the expansion, citing concerns that it will solidify Heathrow’s position as one of the world’s most expensive hubs. Conversely, a spokesperson for the airport argued that the third runway would ultimately improve affordability and passenger choice while providing an economic boost. The government, which formally backed the airport's £33 billion proposal in November, aims to reach a final planning decision by 2029. The project continues to face long-standing opposition from environmental groups and local residents concerned about noise, pollution, and climate targets.
Source: BBC News
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