London mayor rejects Heathrow third runway, citing climate and traffic risks
Mayor Sadiq Khan has formally opposed the proposed third runway at Heathrow, arguing it conflicts with climate goals and would overload transport networks.
London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, has officially opposed the plan for a third runway at Heathrow Airport, stating that the expansion threatens both environmental targets and the city’s transport capacity. In a joint submission with Transport for London, the mayor’s office argued that the strategic case for the runway is built on evidence that does not reflect current climate laws or post-pandemic travel habits. The response highlighted potential increases of 60,000 daily highway trips and the need for £9 billion in surface-access upgrades, as well as extensive rail improvements.
Heathrow Airport Limited maintains the project is the "most important economic growth opportunity" for the UK, promising privately funded noise insulation and infrastructure solutions. A group of London and home-county council leaders backed the mayor’s stance, urging the government to withdraw support, while the Back Heathrow campaign claimed broad local backing for the expansion. The Department for Transport said it will consider all responses before deciding on next steps later this year.
Why it matters
The decision will shape London's climate strategy, transport congestion, and national economic prospects.
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