Airlines issue Heathrow third runway warning as they slam ‘quality of service’

Airlines have raised concerns over Heathrow’s third runway plans as they believe its effectiveness as a hub airport is hampered by the way it is run. Some 90% of respondents to a survey of 50 carriers which use the west London airport agreed with the assertion. The standard of services and a lack of engagement were among the reasons cited by airlines for why they believe Heathrow’s capability is hindered. Heathrow’s Airline Operators Committee (AOC), which represents the airport’s airlines and commissioned the research, said it shows a third runway would be “unaffordable” under the current system. In response, the airport said it agrees that “adjustments to the regulatory model are needed”, but insisted “airlines and passengers get good value for money”. More than two out of three (67%) airlines agreed that the airport’s operation stifles their ability to increase investment. Some 60% of respondents believe Heathrow’s service levels inside terminals is worse than at other major airports, with claims of long security lines, baggage system failures and poor treatment of passengers with restricted mobility. Chancellor Rachel Reeves gave her backing for Heathrow’s third runway project in a speech on growth in January. The airport responded by saying it would submit detailed plans to the Government in the summer. The cost of the project was estimated at GBP14b in 2014, but this is likely to have risen sharply.<br/>