London
Heathrow’s third runway
Counting from
15 January 2009
The counter begins with the government’s January 2009 decision to support a third runway. It includes periods when the proposal was cancelled or paused; it is not a measure of uninterrupted construction delay.
Still in planning
A draft expansion policy was published in June 2026. Heathrow has announced a further public consultation for 27 October–22 December 2026, ahead of its development consent application.
Still waiting forA third runway built and open for flights.
Milestones
- 15 January 2009
Government backs a third runway
The decision used as the starting point for this clock. Source: UK Parliament
- 20 May 2010
Government commits to cancellation
The new coalition publishes its programme for government, including a commitment to cancel the third runway. Source: Cabinet Office
- 18 June 2026
Draft expansion policy published
Government publishes a draft national policy statement for Heathrow expansion. Source: Department for Transport
- September 2026
Further consultation announced
Heathrow announces another public consultation, scheduled for 27 October–22 December 2026. Source: Heathrow