Luton Airport hopes to nearly double its passengers to 32 million a year by 2043 after the UK government approved its expansion plans. The project includes a new terminal, extra taxiways, and upgrades to the current terminal.
Project factsheet
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Target year for completion: 2043
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Expected passenger increase: From 18 million to 32 million yearly
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New features: One new terminal and new taxiways
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Owner: Luton Rising (owned by Luton Borough Council)
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Jobs expected to be created: Up to 11,000
This approval went ahead even though the Planning Inspectorate had advised Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander to reject the plans due to worries about the environment.
Luton Rising, the airport’s owner, welcomed the news and said the decision would bring many benefits. On the other hand, climate campaigners strongly criticised the move. They warned that adding around 70,000 more flights each year would worsen climate change. One campaigner said:
With climate change worsening, the last thing any of us need is 70,000 more aircraft a year
Government supports Luton Airport expansion for growth and jobs
Last year, Luton Airport was the UK’s fifth busiest, with 16.9 million passengers and 132,000 flights. The current terminal can handle up to 18 million people yearly. With the expansion, the airport wants to handle almost double that.
The Prime Minister’s office said it was happy with the decision. A spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer said:
“Improving national infrastructure is key to driving growth and creating jobs. This plan supports our wider vision for change.”
The government had delayed the decision three times, allowing Heidi Alexander more time to review it. In the end, she gave the go-ahead.
Paul Kehoe, who chairs Luton Rising, said the plans could create up to 11,000 new jobs and add £1.5 billion to the economy every year.
Mixed reactions as local groups raise concerns
Still, not everyone agrees. Some local groups believe the expansion will harm nearby villages and natural areas.
Andrew Lambourne from the campaign group LADACAN said the government ignored local voices. He said that people already suffer from night flights. Adding 70% more is unfair.
The countryside charity CPRE added that the plans go against the government’s promise to cut emissions by 2030.
The Planning Inspectorate also raised concerns about noise and disruption to the peaceful Chiltern Hills. The number of flights over the area could rise to one every 15 minutes, up from once every 30 minutes now.
Luton Rising said it would place limits on noise and emissions. Meanwhile, airlines are already eyeing the new space. Wizz Air, the airport’s largest operator, said it plans to grow further. Managing Director Marion Geoffroy said:
We have seen demand grow in recent years, and we’re confident we can add more capacity.
Jet2 also launched new routes this week, which means competition will heat up. “It’s good to compete,” Geoffroy added.
We are delighted the airport can offer more capacity, but we will be competing for sure.
Villages fear impact of Luton Airport expansion
Local councils are worried about the effects on small communities near the airport. King’s Walden Parish Council said the expansion would ruin the countryside and bring more pollution.
They also fear that more passengers will park in nearby villages like Breachwood Green to avoid airport fees.
