Heidi Alexander, the UK Transport Secretary, announced that the UK government is "minded to approve" Gatwick Airport's £2.2 billion expansion plan, which would allow for 100,000 additional flights per year. She made this statement at an industry event on February 27.
"I Have No Intention of Clipping Anyone's Wings," said Alexander.
Alexander emphasized that aviation growth is essential for the country’s economy while pledging to balance expansion with environmental goals. The Gatwick Airport expansion plan involves shifting its northern runway 12 meters further north, allowing it to operate alongside the main runway. This adjustment would enable a significant increase in flight capacity while maintaining operational efficiency.