A.I.R. News
23 October 2025
The government has begun a formal review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), restarting the process that could lead to approval for a third runway at Heathrow by providing the framework within which any future expansion will be considered.
The updated policy framework will set out how any Heathrow expansion proposal must address four tests: climate impact, air quality, noise, and national economic benefit. The government aims to complete the review and make a final decision within this Parliament, with flights from a new runway expected by 2035 if the project proceeds.
The last ANPS process, finalised in 2018, took five years. This review is intended to be completed about three years faster, with a draft version for public consultation expected by summer 2026. The Climate Change Committee will advise on how the revised policy aligns with the UK’s net zero commitments.
