Minister backs expansion of airports as Gatwick decision looms

British Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, stated that the government "believes in increasing airport capacity" as the deadline for approving the expansion of Gatwick Airport approaches. A decision is expected later this week on whether the airport in West Sussex can expand its operations to two simultaneously operating runways.

Alexander stated that the government will "do everything we can to support the industry and unlock growth." She must announce by Thursday whether she has decided to approve Gatwick Airport's application, which would allow for an additional 100,000 flights per year. Gatwick Airport hopes to reposition its northern runway, which is currently only used for taxiing or emergencies, and says it could be completed and operational by the end of this decade.

The project is expected to cost £2.2 billion and will be a privately funded project. The expansion plan is controversial, with strong opposition from some members of parliament, local authorities, and residents.

Alexander made the comments while speaking at the annual dinner of industry body Airlines UK in London on Tuesday evening. "I have no intention of clipping anyone's wings. I am not some sort of flight-shaming eco-warrior. I love flying – I always have," the Transport Secretary said.

Alexander also raised the issues of climate change and extreme weather events. She said she does not want to see a world "ravaged" by these events, but also wants a world where her nieces and nephews are not deprived of the opportunity to travel. "This government believes in increasing airport capacity. We are ambitious for the sector. But if we are to balance the demands of today with the necessities of tomorrow, those rigorous standards must be met," Alexander said.