Responding to new analysis showing that Istanbul has overtaken Heathrow as the world’s best-connected airport, Ed Richardson, Programme Director for Transport at BusinessLDN, said:
“Heathrow is a gateway for growth for London and the whole UK. As an island trading nation, the global connectivity that it provides is vital in helping businesses across the country access international markets and supporting tourism.
“The fact that the UK’s only hub airport has been overtaken by Istanbul as the world’s best-connected airport underlines the urgent need for expansion. We cannot afford to stand still while rival airports overseas steal a march through new facilities and extra capacity.
“Heathrow’s third runway would provide an immediate boost to the economy through tens of billions of private investment, which would benefit a supply chain spanning the UK. Crucially, it would also provide huge opportunities for businesses across the economy by opening up access to new markets and customers.
“The Government needs to press on at speed to meet its ambitious timeline and unlock the full benefits the scheme can offer to passengers, workers, businesses and the UK.”