Heathrow expansion faces criticism over noise and costs

Heathrow Airport’s proposed third runway expansion is facing intense scrutiny from rival airports and airlines regarding noise compensation and economic viability. Gatwick Airport has criticized Heathrow’s compensation packages for noise insulation, arguing that the proposed £3,000 per household is inadequate compared to the £6,500 levels approved for Gatwick and Luton. Gatwick claims the expansion would impact 20 times more residents than its own operations.

Virgin Atlantic and other airlines have raised alarms over the project’s escalating costs. Estimates for the expansion range from £33 billion to as high as £63 billion when including terminal improvements. Virgin Atlantic warned that the scheme could become the ‘world’s most expensive airport scheme ever constructed,’ potentially making it economically unviable for airlines to operate at the expanded hub. The airline is calling for a fifth test regarding affordability to be added to existing assessments on climate, noise, air quality, and economic growth.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has also opposed the plan, citing concerns that it could lead to more than 150 additional night flights per day. While Heathrow maintains its insulation offers cover a wider area and account for night curfews, critics argue the financial burden on passengers and carriers could undermine the project's intended economic benefits.