UK's Heathrow rallies support for third runway as Parliament weighs expansion plans

Heathrow Airport says its long-planned expansion toward a third runway is gaining momentum as the UK Parliament reviews the draft National Policy Statement. The airport’s CEO, Thomas Woldbye, will give evidence to the Transport Select Committee on October 14. Heathrow says trade unions, airlines, regional airports and investors support the project. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham did not back the plan, saying it should be decided by people living near London’s main airport. Heathrow cites polling of more than 9,000 residents across nine boroughs showing 68% support, alongside expected 100,000-plus jobs and £33 billion ($43.74 billion) in private investment. It has previously warned the runway could open by 2039.