Expansion at Heathrow could boost every UK nation and region with more supply chain opportunities, connectivity, investment and tourism.
As the country’s largest port by value and the UK’s Gateway to Growth, Heathrow connects the UK to over 230 destinations worldwide. This global connectivity underpins economic growth across the country - supporting businesses of all sizes, enabling skilled jobs, and unlocking global trade opportunities.
Heathrow expansion would be one of the largest privately financed infrastructure projects in Europe and could strengthen the UK’s ability to compete with other leading European and global hub airports. It could create jobs and enable even more businesses to access global exporting opportunities.
It is for this reason that Chambers of Commerce, Trade Unions, businesses and airports right across the country support a third runway.
The UK business community supports the expansion of Heathrow with a third runway – an investment in the nation's future. The benefits are clear: for exporters, it opens up vital access to major and emerging markets; for visitors, it enhances global and domestic connectivity; and for businesses, it unlocks billions in private investment, strengthening supply chains, creating jobs, and driving skills across the country.
Scottish salmon is one of Heathrow’s largest exports by tonnage, with 35% of all Scottish salmon exports by value, nearly £300m, exported through Heathrow. Scottish salmon is produced across the nation from over 200 farms, involving 3,600 supply chain businesses from every constituency in Scotland. Scottish salmon is increasingly popular in Asia but when exporting there is a need for speed to ensure freshness. Heathrow’s direct connectivity therefore plays a crucial role, leveraging growth in Asian markets and helping Scottish salmon farmers win.
Independent analysis by Frontier Economics explores the national and regional economic benefits of expanding Heathrow.
