The government specifically ordered the Airports Commission to delay its report until after the election.

This is according to chairman Sir Howard Davies, who appeared in front of the House of Commons' Transport Committee. He told the group of MPs that he would have been able to produce his full study and final recommendations for how to improve the UK's airport capacity before next summer's vote. 

Sir Howard advised he felt the extra time gave the commission an opportunity to provide a more thorough report and would provide impetus for the new government, once the final decision has been made. He added should the report recommend a third runway at Heathrow, it could be built by 2026.

He also used his appearance at the transport committee to further respond to the criticism levelled at his organisation by Boris Johnson. The London mayor has reacted angrily to the apparent rejection of his proposals for a new airport on the Thames estuary, likening the commission to the X Factor. Sir Howard said: "We will not react, we will simply press on. I will attempt to rise above this vulgar abuse."

The commission will be reviewing its assessment on the shortlisted options over the next 18 months before delivering its final decision.