The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT(UK)) has welcomed Chancellor Rachel Reeves' announcement on Heathrow Airport's expansion, but has also highlighted the importance of prioritising environmental concerns.

Paul Le Blond FCILT, Chair of the CILT(UK) Aviation Policy Group, said: "The first priority must be updating the 2018 Parliament-approved Airports National Policy Statement to reflect current aviation sector performance against legally-binding Carbon Budgets.

"We see an opportunity to implement a measured approach, focusing on short and medium-term development of existing runways whilst safeguarding space for a third runway. This balanced strategy would support increased passenger and cargo capacity, driving local employment, regional connectivity and national economic growth.

"Any expansion strategy must prioritise public transport integration, leveraging existing transport hubs and accommodating new rail links. The development should include modernised terminals and new gateway facilities for both the northern and southern perimeters. Crucially, all environmental impacts—including noise, local air quality, and greenhouse gas emissions—must remain within statutory limits.

"Whilst the expansion would be privately funded through passenger and shipping revenues, government support through policy frameworks and strategic rail investment will be essential to unlock private sector investment."

David Parish FCILT, Vice Chair of the CILT(UK) Aviation Policy Group, added: "The aviation industry is making significant strides in sustainable technology. Major manufacturers like Airbus are developing innovative low-carbon aircraft, which will be instrumental in ensuring any expansion aligns with Carbon Budget requirements. The industry anticipates that sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and battery-powered aircraft will be operational by 2040, supporting our journey toward greener aviation."

See CILT(UK)’s most recent aviation report calling for an overhaul of the UK’s Airports National Policy Statement.

Please also see some additional statistics published in CILT(UK)’s Airport Surface Access (page 25) policy paper we published last year.