Airlines are insisting that Heathrow should not be allowed to increase charges if it is given the go ahead to build a third runway.
Speaking on behalf of 70 carriers, the Board of Airline Representatives in the UK (BAR UK), said it supported the Government’s preferred option of a new northwest runway at London’s premier hub.
However, in its response to the Government’s Draft Airports National Policy Statement, which closd yesterday, it said the selected scheme must be affordable to airlines.
Chief executive of BAR UK Dale Keller said: "Today marks another important milestone in the long process to achieve a bigger, better and more affordable Heathrow.
"BAR UK has called for the NPS to insist upon flat or lower charges in order that the world’s most expensive major hub airport can become more competitive globally.
"Only the right combination of increased capacity, airspace reform, better surface transport connections, and lower charges, will enable airlines to deliver the full economic benefits of expansion in the national interest.
"Airlines also point out the need for the NPS to allow more flexibility during the consultation process in order that overly prescriptive assessment principles, including runway length and terminal location, do not preclude new initiatives put forward by airlines, communities and scheme promoters, that could result in a better final scheme."
