The UK government has expressed its support for a second runway at London Gatwick Airport, a move aimed at addressing capacity issues while balancing environmental concerns. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander indicated she is "minded to approve" the new runway, contingent on noise mitigation measures for local residents. Gatwick, currently Europe's busiest single-runway airport, sees 55 take-offs and landings in a busy hour and is reportedly "full." The airport plans to shift its northern runway, currently used for taxiing or as a backup, to become operational by the end of the decade.
Gatwick Airport's commitment to reducing noise levels below those recorded in 2019 marks a significant shift. The year 2019 was notably one of the worst for noise pollution at the airport. The proposed expansion could see an additional 50,000 departures annually by the end of the 2030s. With over 40 million passengers passing through last year, Gatwick primarily caters to short-haul holiday destinations, offering fewer business and long-haul flights than Heathrow.
Heidi Alexander emphasized her support for the runway, stating:
"I am not some sort of flight-shaming eco warrior. I love flying – I always have," – Heidi Alexander, Transport Secretary
The UK Climate Change Committee (UKCCC) has recommended a 17% reduction in planet-warming gases from the aviation sector by 2023 levels. The committee suggests that demand for flying should increase by no more than 16% by 2040, significantly less than the projected 53% growth. They advocate for reducing the industry's climate impact through reduced flying demand, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and capturing emissions.
Sally Pavey, chair of Communities Against Gatwick Noise Emissions (CAGNE), voiced concerns about the expansion's environmental implications:
"Uncontrollable noise, ramifications on the roads, decline in air quality… and climate change." – Sally Pavey, chair of Communities Against Gatwick Noise Emissions (CAGNE)
Another statement from Pavey highlighted potential risks associated with the expansion:
"We can't keep ignoring climate change and it would be wrong to allow a new 'bucket and spade' runway, as we put it, at the expense of residents and the economy," – Sally Pavey, chair of Communities Against Gatwick Noise Emissions (CAGNE)
Bronwen Jones, development director at Gatwick, expressed optimism regarding the project's potential benefits:
"A win for everyone." – Bronwen Jones, development director at Gatwick
The northern runway would facilitate around 30,000 flights annually solely for departures. This change aims to alleviate congestion and meet rising demand while addressing environmental concerns. However, critics argue that the expansion might not align with sustainable practices advocated by environmental experts.
Alex Chapman from the New Economics Foundation commented on the economic implications:
"This is principally an investment that will support the economy, potentially, of the region around the airport and in London and the South East, but at the cost of others," – Alex Chapman from the New Economics Foundation