The Airline Operators Committee (AOC) at Heathrow has sounded the alarm over the airport’s proposed third runway.
This week, the group, representing carriers at the UK’s busiest hub, warned that poor service quality and operational inefficiencies could derail the multi-billion-pound project.
This comes as a survey of 50 airlines revealed deep dissatisfaction with Heathrow’s current performance, raising questions about its readiness for expansion.
Airlines Slam Heathrow’s Service
The AOC’s survey painted a rather grim picture. A staggering 90% of airlines said Heathrow’s day-to-day operations undermine its status as a leading global hub.
Long security queues, frequent baggage system failures, and subpar support for passengers with restricted mobility topped the list of complaints.
Over 60% of respondents also noted that terminal service levels fall short compared to rival airports like Amsterdam Schiphol or Paris Charles de Gaulle. For airlines, these issues go beyond mere inconvenience, and represent a barrier to growth.
The survey found that 67% of carriers feel constrained in boosting investment at Heathrow due to these operational hiccups.
With the airport already stretched thin, the AOC argues that adding a third runway without major reforms would be a costly mistake.
They’ve labeled the project “unaffordable” under the current setup, pointing to a lack of engagement from Heathrow’s management as a key sticking point.
The Heathrow Third Runway Debate
Plans for a Heathrow third runway have been in the works for years, aimed at easing congestion and boosting capacity. In January, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves threw her weight behind the project, calling it a driver of economic growth.
But the AOC’s warning throws a wrench into the narrative. Airlines want assurances that Heathrow can deliver better service before committing to the expansion’s hefty price tag.
Heathrow’s leadership has pushed back, insisting that operational performance is on the mend. They argue the airport remains a top choice for airlines, with demand for slots outstripping supply.
Yet, the AOC’s critique suggests that shiny new infrastructure won’t fix deeper systemic flaws unless addressed head-on.
A Call for Reform
The AOC is part of the “Heathrow Reimagined” campaign, which seeks to overhaul how the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulates the airport.
They believe the current framework stifles improvements and keeps costs too high. By tweaking regulations, the group hopes to make the third runway financially viable while lifting service standards.
This clash highlights a broader tension: balancing expansion with passenger experience. Heathrow handles over 80 million passengers annually, but its reputation has taken hits from delays and overcrowding.
Airlines argue that without a focus on quality, the Heathrow third runway scheme risks becoming a white elephant—an expensive addition that fails to deliver.
What’s Next for Heathrow?
The third runway’s fate hinges on compromise. Airlines want action on service woes, while Heathrow’s management defends its track record.
Meanwhile, the CAA faces pressure to rethink its approach. For travellers, a better-run Heathrow could mean smoother journeys, but only if the airport and its operators align on a fix.
As the debate rolls on, one thing is clear—Heathrow’s third runway proposal will be about proving the airport can handle more while finally getting the basics right.
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