Menzies Chief: The Future of Heathrow is Limited Without a Third Runway

The CEO of Menzies Aviation, Philipp Joeinig, has expressed concerns about the future of London Heathrow Airport (LHR) if it does not expand its runway infrastructure. In an interview with City A.M., Joeinig emphasized that Heathrow's status as a major international hub is at risk without the addition of a third runway, as airlines may start seeking alternative airports capable of handling increased traffic.

Joeinig pointed out that the bureaucratic processes in Europe and the UK can delay critical infrastructure projects, unlike in other regions where developments occur more swiftly. He urged for a more business-friendly regulatory environment to support the timely execution of such projects, highlighting the significant benefits this would bring to those working on crucial infrastructure.

Case for a Third Runway at LHR

Discussions about a third runway at Heathrow have been ongoing for decades. The debate dates back to 1995 when the UK government launched an inquiry about constructing Terminal 5. BAA, now Heathrow Airport Holdings Limited, initially argued that the terminal would negate the need for a third runway. However, British Airways' 2003 paper on aviation development in southeast England made a strong case for expanding Heathrow's infrastructure, suggesting that a short runway would sustain the airport’s competitiveness until at least 2030.

Heathrow's latest consultation document from June 2019 reiterated that its runways have been operating at full capacity for over a decade. The Independent Airports Commission, established by the UK government in 2012, has been slow in progressing the third runway project, leaving the airport unable to meet growing demand.

Capacity Shortages

The UK Department for Transport (DfT) published a consultation paper in December 2023, outlining potential slot regulation reforms post-EU regulation from June 2026. The paper highlighted significant barriers for new entrants at Heathrow, with only 12 out of 152,613 summer slots in 2022 being allocated to new entrants. Most slots were retained by incumbent airlines, further exacerbating capacity issues.

The latest report from Airport Coordination Limited (ACL) for Winter 2024/2025 revealed a demand for 221,986 slots at Heathrow, but only 182,140 were cleared due to runway constraints. The lack of a third runway is causing significant operational limitations, preventing the airport from accommodating the growing number of flights and passengers.

In Conclusion

Joeinig’s remarks underscore the urgent need for expanding Heathrow’s runway capacity to maintain its position as a leading international hub. Without a third runway, Heathrow faces the risk of losing its competitive edge, as airlines may look to other airports that can better handle the projected growth in air travel.