Heathrow’s billionaire bidder: I’ll put every penny I have on more third runway delays

Billionaire hotel magnate Surinder Arora is advising that Heathrow’s proposed third runway expansion cannot be completed by the 2039 deadline set by the airport’s owner, Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL). Arora, whose group is proposing a rival plan called Heathrow West, stated that the original plan is not deliverable until at least 2042. He and several airlines have conducted research supporting this claim.

Arora's concerns come after Heathrow conceded that the ambitious 2035 deadline set by former Chancellor Rachel Reeves was not feasible given the current rate of progress. The airport now expects flights to begin operating a decade after planning approval. Airlines like British Airways owner IAG and Virgin Atlantic have long warned that the original timeline was unrealistic.

However, Arora's own proposal, which includes building over the M25 and relocating some lakes, may also be delayed beyond 2040 if ministers choose HAL's more expansive design. He is prepared to invest all his funds and the profits from his hotels to ensure HAL's scheme is delayed even further.

Despite Heathrow's original design being chosen by ministers, Arora and his team have developed an alternative two-phase proposal. The first phase would be operational by 2035, featuring a new terminal and a 2,800-meter runway for shorter-haul flights. The second phase is intended to be ready by 2040, extending the runway to 3,500 meters for larger aircraft.

The government's stance on the expansion has been less supportive than its predecessor. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has not given his full backing, stating that the decision is "up to Londoners." The new government has not yet scheduled a vote on the planning statement, with the expectation to occur in early 2027. Arora urged the government to reconsider the project, emphasizing the need for growth and affordability.

A Heathrow spokesperson argued that a credible plan is essential and their proposal, privately funded and shaped by a decade of scrutiny, is detailed, achievable, and the only option the government selected. However, the Arora Group has faced criticism for lacking the experience of running or constructing an airport, having submitted three proposals in 18 months, with the latest being the least detailed.

The Department for Transport did not comment on ongoing consultation processes but reiterated that the timeline is ambitious and they will work with promoters to ensure the right framework is in place for a potential planning application.