Boris Johnson has likened the process of choosing the site for a new runway to the X Factor.

According to the Guardian, the London mayor also accused the Airports Commission of blindly favouring Heathrow, instead of following its own research.

In a keynote speech, Mr Johnson argued that Sir Howard Davies was making decisions as if he was Simon Cowell. He expressed dismay that his own plans for expansion at Standsted were seemingly ignored for frivolous reasons when the commission made its interim report in December.

An ally and senior aviation adviser to the mayor, Daniel Moylan, delivered the speech on his behalf. Speaking at an industry conference, Mr Moylan added that the findings of the report were in stark contrast to the information contained in its research.

Sir Howard, head of the commission, responded to the criticism. He said: "We want to make sure a decision is soundly based and not vulnerable to challenge."

Detailed plans have been requested from all shortlisted parties by the autumn. A period of public consultation will then begin and a final decision is expected after the general election in 2015.