UK airlines comment on CCC report on Heathrow Airport expansion & net zero

September 16th, 2026

Commenting on the report published by the Climate Change Committee on the compatibility of Heathrow expansion with delivery of UK aviation net zero emissions, Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, said:

“UK airlines back cost-effective airport growth and net zero by 2050 — but the transition has to be affordable. Airlines are already investing billions in new aircraft, SAF and airspace upgrades and we have a plan to deliver it. The CCC’s approach would add £600 to a family’s trip to Europe and £1,600 to New York by 2050, putting holidays out of reach for millions and turning the clock back to a time when flying was the preserve of the rich. You can’t solve the climate crisis by pricing Britain out of the skies. 

“The answer is affordable SAF — already cutting emissions since the mandate began — airspace reform by 2035 for more direct routes and scaled-up carbon removals. Both SAF and GGRs are proven technically viable, as the CCC itself admits. We should focus on delivering them, not pricing ordinary people out of the joys of travel.”