Airport Expansion

Baroness Foster of Aghadrumsee Excerpts

Tuesday 25th February 2025 Lords Chamber

[Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill (Lab)]

I cannot say whether a third runway at Heathrow will materially affect the ability of the airport to accept air taxis. There is clearly a limit to what size of aircraft can be landed, not only at the moment but in the future, but we will bear the noble Lord’s suggestion in mind.

[Baroness Foster of Aghadrumsee (Non-Afl)]

I know that the Minister is a great supporter of UK connectivity; indeed, I would recommend his report on the same to the House. Given that that is the case, could he confirm that, for some of us, flight is essential?

[Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill (Lab)]

I thank the noble Baroness. She will know that I spent a large portion of lockdown looking at connectivity in the United Kingdom. I entirely agree with her that the economy of Northern Ireland is utterly dependent on good flights to and from London and other places in mainland Britain. One of the opportunities that a third runway would give is better connectivity to Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport, especially for Northern Ireland and places in Scotland, to make that economy grow, as well as mainland Britain’s economy.