Rachel Reeves’ plans for Heathrow expansion may raise airline ticket prices by £40, sparking concerns among travelers and environmentalists alike
London: Rachel Reeves is stirring up quite a buzz with her plans for Heathrow Airport. The idea is to expand the airport, but it might come with a hefty price tag for travelers.
According to the Treasury’s analysis, ticket prices could jump by about £40. That’s a big deal for anyone planning to fly. The Chancellor wants to add a new runway to increase flights using sustainable aviation fuel.
But here’s the catch: that fuel could be pretty pricey. Experts say that by 2040, the cost of a single economy ticket could rise by nearly £38. Ouch!
It’s not just economy flyers who will feel the pinch. Everyone, including those in first and business class, will see ticket prices go up. The Treasury estimates that up to 75% of the extra costs will be passed on to passengers.
Officials noted that current ticket prices don’t reflect the true cost of flying. They’re hoping to encourage more use of greener fuels, but it’s a tough sell.
Labour is trying to balance economic growth with hitting net zero targets. However, Reeves is facing backlash from within her party. Many are worried about the environmental impact of expanding Heathrow.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has been vocal against the expansion, citing concerns about air quality and noise. He believes it could hinder London’s goal of reaching net zero by 2030.
Even Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other cabinet members have opposed the expansion in the past. At a recent event in Davos, the Chancellor was questioned about the potential fallout from her plans.
She argued that the UK has long struggled with balancing economic growth and environmental concerns. It’s a tricky situation, and many feel the answer can’t always be “no.”
Heathrow’s third runway got the green light back in 2018, but legal challenges and the pandemic have delayed progress. Currently, planes use kerosene, which is highly polluting.
Switching to sustainable fuels could cut emissions significantly, but critics warn that expanding Heathrow could still harm the environment. Alethea Warrington from climate charity Possible called it a “catastrophic misstep” for a government claiming to lead on climate issues.
She believes this expansion would only benefit a small group of frequent flyers and worsen the UK’s tourism deficit. It’s a complex issue with no easy answers.
