Debate over whether Heathrow should expand or a new hub airport be built is misguided, according to CIHT and the Institution of Civil Engineers. They say that attention should focus on whether the west London airport can realistically grow to include more than three runways. If not then plans for an alternative hub airport in the South East must be developed quickly.

The two institutions issued a joint response to the Government’s draft Aviation Policy Framework last Friday. They call for a ‘twin track’ approach to aviation capacity that pushes ahead not only with longer term solutions but also measures that can be delivered in the short term. They include ways to relieve capacity restraints at Heathrow and keep the UK from slipping further behind rival European airports.

Both CIHT and ICE also call for the creation of a group similar to the Olympic Delivery Authority to implement recommendations made by the Davies Commission. The independent commission, chaired by Sir Howard Davies, has been tasked by Government to publish an interim report by the end of next year and a full report in summer 2015.

CIHT Chief Executive Sue Percy said: “The Commission’s interim report in 2013 must indicate a clear direction of travel and come 2015 Government should make an unambiguous decision that has cross party consensus and can be driven forward.”