As the Airports Commission continues its national consultation on airport capacity expansion, Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce has joined 25 other Chambers in recognising the unique benefits an expanded Heathrow would bring to British business.
Calling on decision makers to recognise the vital role the airport plays in connecting Britain to growth markets around the world, Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce endorsed an expanded Heathrow as the best solution to the UK’s hub capacity crisis. The move follows an independent analysis by the Airports Commission which indicated that expanding Heathrow would result in up to £211 billion in economic benefit and create up to 180,000 jobs right across the UK.
Robert Collier, Chief Executive of Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce said:
“It is crucial that we preserve and increase the 78 flights per week between Aberdeen and Heathrow and so expanding Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport, is a necessity for our region. Heathrow expansion will also increase the number of long-haul connections at the hub, driving exports for businesses in Aberdeen and bring the inward investment that creates jobs in our region.”
Derek Provan, Heathrow’s Airside Director said:
“As the UK’s biggest port, Heathrow plays a vital role in connecting British businesses to international markets. Sitting at the heart of a global network of arrivals, departures and cargo, Heathrow is uniquely placed to enable the long-haul links to the growth markets that will create jobs here in the UK possible. Expansion at Heathrow means businesses in Aberdeen and right across the UK will be able to reach those fast growing market and take advantage of their full growth potential.”
Heathrow submitted its refined plans for a third runway to the Airports Commission in May following discussions with local residents and local businesses, the public, businesses around the country, passengers, airlines and elected representatives across the UK. Heathrow is the UK’s only hub and the only option that will connect the whole of the UK to new emerging economies, bringing jobs and prosperity to the country. It is deliverable, fundable and will create a world-class global gateway to make Britain proud.
