A new runway at Heathrow and Scotland
Published 5 June 2018
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A new runway at Heathrow would bring real benefits to people across Scotland
Existing flights to Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Inverness could be joined by new routes to places like Prestwick.
It would also mean a greater choice of airlines at Heathrow and international destinations for people going on holiday, visiting friends or family or travelling for business.
The increased competition at the airport is expected to drive down fares.
There is an urgent need for new runway capacity
Government forecasts show all 5 of London’s major airports will be full by the mid-2030s, and 4 within a decade. If they fill up, there will be less room for flights from London to destinations around the world or to other UK cities.
The government has selected the new runway that would bring the greatest benefits across the UK in the shortest time – such as new flights and opportunities for jobs.
Expansion would send a clear message to the world that Britain is a truly global nation
It would ensure we have the connections we need to thrive internationally.
A new runway would enable Heathrow to nearly double its capability to move cargo by air, offering businesses across Scotland the chance to increase their exports.
Additional capacity at Heathrow would support growth in important sectors of the UK and the Scottish economy, such as tourism, financial and professional services and the creative industries.
