MPs' plans to block Heathrow expansion are 'frustrating and short-sighted', says GTMC

It comes after senior figures in the Labour party reportedly told the Financial Times that Jeremy Corbyn and his senior colleagues were “almost certainly” going to oppose Heathrow’s third runway proposal when it comes to a House of Commons vote.

A spokesperson at the GTMC described the reports as “frustrating and detrimental to the economy and severely short-sighted”, highlighting that Heathrow is at capacity, both as an international gateway and a regional hub for UK airports outside of the South East.

GTMC added in a statement: “As the voice of the business traveller, the GTMC is very clear that airport expansion in the South East is vital for the UK’s continued economic growth, particularly post-Brexit.”

It also pointed out that its research, conducted in partnership with Oxford Economics, showed a “direct link between air connectivity and economic prosperity”.

“Just a 1% increase in international air travel for business has the potential to increase trade by around 0.09%, the equivalent to around £600 million," the guild added.

“Parliamentary decision makers need to think beyond the next election and take a long term view that considers the nationwide impact of not allowing air connectivity to stimulate economic growth.

“The infrastructure to access other growing markets is essential post-Brexit to avoid UK businesses becoming disadvantaged compared to overseas competitors. Without greater air capacity jobs will be lost to other countries.”