UK finance minister says Heathrow expansion would boost growth

British Finance Minister John Healey has expressed support for expanding Heathrow Airport, stating that it aligns with the government's central goal of boosting the economy. This comes after Prime Minister Andy Burnham refused to endorse the plans for a new runway, a decision that has caused division among British politicians for years.

The issue of adding an extra runway at the busiest airport in Europe was previously expected to be resolved by Burnham's predecessor, Keir Starmer, in 2025. However, Healey told reporters at the International Monetary Fund's annual meeting in Bangkok that the project is in line with the government's aim to strengthen the economy.

He emphasized that the case for a third runway at Heathrow is fundamentally a case for growth. Just three weeks ago, Burnham declined to support the expansion, citing the concerns of residents living near the airport and the potential impact on the UK's climate targets from increased flights. With a lengthy planning process ahead, Heathrow has indicated that a third runway may not be operational until 2039, a timeline that is four years beyond the initial projections.