The government supported the third runway at the Hitriv airport

• The government approved a plan to expand Hitriv by 49 billion pounds.
• The construction of the third runway will allow an increase in passenger capacity to 150 million per year.
• Environmental organizations expressed opposition to the project due to its impact on the environment.

The government of Great Britain has approved the decision to expand Hitriv airport, including the construction of the third runway. This project, estimated at 49 billion pounds sterling, anticipates an increase in flight frequency by 57% to more than 2000 per day and an increase in passenger capacity to 79%, which amounts to 150 million passengers per year by 2035.

Transport Minister Haidi Aleksander stated that the new runway will allow faster, quieter, and more eco-friendly flights. However, significant expenditures, including 21 billion pounds for the runway itself and 12 billion for terminal infrastructure, have raised concerns among aviation companies, which fear an increase in fees for passengers.

The competitive proposal from the Arora group, which anticipated a shorter runway for 25 billion pounds, was not selected, but its participation in the project remains possible. Environmental organizations, such as Coalition Against the Third Runway, have spoken out against the expansion, highlighting the threats to local residents and the surrounding environment.

The next steps include reviewing the National Airport Policy and conducting public consultations until July 2026. If the project is approved, construction could begin as early as 2030.

Tags: Europe/Aviation