Gatwick Airport’s hotly contested second runway can now be brought into full use after the Court of Appeal dismissed a legal challenge against the expansion project, bringing years of uncertainty to an end.
An economic impact assessment previously forecast that expansion will create 14,000 new jobs across the region and deliver an additional £1 billion in economic benefits every year, helping to drive growth across the South East and beyond through Gatwick’s national supply chain.
With the Court of Appeal having refused permission for the campaign group to appeal, the first flights will take off from the extended Northern Runway from 2030.
This will mean 100,000 more flights each year, massively expanding on the 200+ destinations currently offered.
In addition to giving passengers more choice, the second runway is expected to generate more competition, thereby exerting downward pressure on fares.
UK Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander (pictured), said: “This is a major milestone for Gatwick and for local communities, with expansion unlocking investment and creating thousands of new jobs.
“Around 13 million more passengers and 100,000 more flights will give holidaymakers greater choice and strengthen global links to help make the UK one of the most attractive places in the world to invest.
“We’ll back expansion that supports growth and our climate goals. To drive forward sustainable change, we’re also investing over £219 million for green fuel production to cut emissions from flying and secure the future of aviation.”
She added that the UK government remains committed to improving sustainability in aviation, with any expansion project – including a third runway at Heathrow – required to meet strict conditions on air quality, carbon emissions and noise.
That’s why the government has just announced £219 million to boost production of sustainable aviation fuel in the UK, as well as £43 million to drive forward hydrogen-powered and electric flight, with the goal of making the UK a leader in greener flight.
Image: Laurie Noble/House of Commons
