Rival Heathrow expansion proposal gains airline backing

A competing proposal for Heathrow Airport’s expansion has gained support from several major aviation organisations, setting the stage for a renewed debate over how the UK’s busiest airport should grow in the coming decades.

The alternative scheme, backed by the Arora Group and promoted through Heathrow West Limited (HWL), proposes delivering a third runway in two phases rather than through a single large-scale development. Supporters argue the approach could reduce costs, minimise disruption and accelerate additional capacity at the airport.

The plan arrives in direct competition with Heathrow Airport Limited’s own £49 billion expansion blueprint, which includes a full-length north-west runway, a new terminal complex and extensive upgrades across the airport estate. That proposal remains the government’s preferred basis for updating the Airports National Policy Statement.

Under the Heathrow West approach, the first stage would involve constructing a shorter 2,400m runway alongside a new western terminal, with the initial phase targeted to open by 2035. The runway would later be extended while remaining operational during future works.

Project backers claim the phased strategy avoids some of the most challenging engineering elements associated with Heathrow’s existing proposal, including the relocation of the M25 motorway. The scheme has been designed with support from engineering consultancy Bechtel and other technical advisers.

A proposed Terminal 6, positioned west of Terminal 5, would eventually serve up to 40 million passengers annually while aiming to reduce overall land requirements and limit impacts on surrounding Green Belt areas.

The revised proposal has received public backing from organisations including IAG, Virgin Atlantic, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Heathrow’s airline operators committee and Swissport. Supporters have highlighted affordability and deliverability as key advantages of the plan.

HWL is also calling for the government and Civil Aviation Authority to establish a formal process for assessing competing Heathrow expansion proposals. The group wants standardised evaluation criteria, independent cost reviews and structured engagement with airlines throughout the process.

Arora Group chairman Surinder Arora said the latest proposal had been developed to align with government objectives while providing better value for airlines and passengers. Meanwhile, aviation leaders including IAG chief executive Luis Gallego and IATA director general Willie Walsh said any expansion strategy must remain financially viable and practically deliverable.

Heathrow West plans to submit a Development Consent Order application in 2027 following further consultation with residents, businesses and stakeholders.