IATA Calls for Rigorous Scrutiny of Heathrow Expansion Proposals Amid Concerns

IATA underscores the strategic necessity of expanding the UK’s airport infrastructure, particularly Heathrow, the country’s only global hub.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has issued a detailed statement regarding the ongoing proposals for the future development of London’s Heathrow Airport, emphasizing the critical importance of expanding airport capacity in Southeast England while urging a thorough and impartial review of competing plans submitted by Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL) and the Arora Group.

Economic Imperative for Heathrow Expansion

IATA underscores the strategic necessity of expanding the UK’s airport infrastructure, particularly Heathrow, the country’s only global hub. The organization applauds the UK government’s commitment to advancing expansion plans as a means to support the nation’s global connectivity and economic growth ambitions. Aviation, as a sector, significantly contributes to the UK economy—generating approximately $160 billion annually, which accounts for 4.8% of the GDP and providing employment for around 1.6 million people.

“Expanding airport capacity in the Southeast of the UK is essential to maintain and enhance the UK’s position in global aviation and trade,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “However, this expansion must be executed with the utmost attention to delivering real value for the economy, passengers, and airlines alike.”

Concerns Over HAL’s Performance and Track Record

Despite acknowledging Heathrow’s critical role, IATA expressed serious reservations about HAL’s ability to manage the airport’s expansion effectively. According to IATA, HAL’s historical performance raises substantial concerns. The airport regularly falls short of agreed service level standards, and the highly publicized closure in March 2025 marked a significant embarrassment that undermined global confidence in HAL’s management capabilities.

IATA further criticized HAL for being ranked as the world’s second most expensive airport, suggesting that such pricing reflects a disregard for the interests of both airlines and travelers. “HAL’s self-promotion regarding its head start in planning should not overshadow the fact that its past investments have under-delivered,” Walsh commented. He stressed the importance of future investments being utilized more efficiently to benefit all stakeholders.

Emphasizing Efficiency, Cost, and Customer Experience

IATA’s statement emphasized the necessity of focusing on operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customer service quality in any expansion project. Given the billions already invested in Heathrow with limited returns in passenger satisfaction and airline support, the stakes for the next phase are considerably higher.

“Future investment must prioritize value for money, streamlined operations, and enhanced customer experience,” Walsh said. “This is not simply about building new infrastructure but ensuring that it meets the needs of the modern aviation ecosystem.”

Welcoming New Perspectives in the Decision-Making Process

The emergence of the Arora Group’s proposal introduces a valuable new perspective to the development debate. IATA highlighted Arora’s respected industry reputation and familiarity with Heathrow operations, suggesting that their involvement broadens the options available to the government and the aviation sector.

“We welcome the Arora proposal as it offers an alternative viewpoint, which is critical for an informed decision,” Walsh stated. “Given the significance of this decision for the UK’s economy and global connectivity, it must not be left solely to HAL’s viewpoint.”

Next Steps: Airline Engagement and Government Decision

Airlines will closely scrutinize both HAL’s and Arora’s proposals to evaluate their merits, focusing particularly on projected costs and benefits to consumers. IATA calls on the UK government to incorporate comprehensive input from airlines—the primary users and beneficiaries of Heathrow’s infrastructure—in its decision-making process.

“The government’s final decision must be well-informed and balanced, reflecting the views of airlines that will ultimately rely on the expanded airport,” said Walsh.

Aviation’s Role in the UK Economy

Aviation remains a cornerstone of the UK’s industrial base, facilitating trade, tourism, and business connectivity. With a direct contribution of $160 billion to the economy and employment for 1.6 million people, the sector’s health is intrinsically linked to the country’s overall economic prosperity.

The IATA’s intervention reinforces the critical need for transparency, accountability, and efficiency in planning Heathrow’s future to ensure that it continues to serve as a world-class gateway that supports the UK’s global ambitions.