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IATA urges careful review of Heathrow expansion proposals amid management concerns

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IATA urges careful review of Heathrow expansion proposals amid management concerns
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Willie Walsh Director General | International Air Transport Association

Heathrow Airport Limited’s (HAL) performance is under scrutiny following recent development proposals, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The association highlighted ongoing concerns with HAL’s management and service delivery.

“HAL’s performance should give pause for concern and careful scrutiny. It regularly fails to meet agreed service level standards. The March closure of the airport was an embarrassment on the global stage that leaves little room for confidence in the airport’s management. HAL’s joy in being the world’s second most expensive airport proves that it cares little about its customers—be they airlines or travelers. And HAL’s self-promoting suggestion that its proposal is somehow superior from the get-go because it may have a head-start in the planning process willfully ignores the true priorities of the UK, airlines and travelers,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

IATA noted that previous investments at Heathrow have not met expectations for both passengers and airlines. The association emphasized that any future expansion must focus on efficiency across costs, operations, and customer experience.

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“The billions of pounds that have already been invested in Heathrow have under-performed, disappointing both passengers and airlines. So it is doubly important for the billions that will be invested in any expansion to be much better spent. That means focusing on efficiency in all aspects—cost, operations, and customer experience,” said Walsh.

Airlines are preparing to examine both HAL's proposal and a competing plan from Arora Group, assessing them based on cost-effectiveness and benefits for consumers.

“Airlines look forward to reviewing both proposals in detail to be able to assess their merits, particularly their costs and consumer benefits. The government’s decision on the way forward must be well-informed by the airlines who will ultimately be charged to use whatever is built,” Walsh added.

Walsh also welcomed Arora Group's involvement as a positive development: “Without any pre-judgement, having the Arora proposal already brings a welcome new perspective from a company with a respected track record and familiarity with Heathrow. This decision is too important to be left solely to HAL’s viewpoint.”

Aviation plays an important role in the UK economy by contributing $160 billion annually—equivalent to 4.8% of GDP—and supporting approximately 1.6 million jobs.

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