CAP3251: Heathrow Capacity Expansion - Consultation on a Shortlist of Regulatory Models

Introduction

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is consulting on a shortlist of potential regulatory models for the expansion of Heathrow Airport, including proposals linked to the development of a third runway and associated infrastructure.

The consultation is set out in CAP3251 and considers how future Heathrow expansion projects could be regulated to protect consumers, encourage efficiency, and support timely delivery.

The consultation closes at 23:59 on 15 June 2026.

Why This Matters

• Heathrow expansion remains one of the UK’s most significant aviation infrastructure proposals, with major implications for communities, passengers, airlines, environmental impacts, and national transport policy.

• The regulatory framework chosen by the CAA could influence:

  • who develops future airport infrastructure

  • how costs are controlled

  • how risks are allocated between Heathrow, airlines, investors, and passengers

  • the degree of competition within airport development and operation

• The consultation explores whether alternative delivery or competitive models could improve outcomes compared with the traditional Heathrow Airport Limited model.

• For communities around Heathrow and under flight paths, the regulatory model adopted may affect:

  • the pace and scope of expansion

  • accountability and transparency

  • future airport charges

  • environmental mitigation and delivery oversight

What the CAA Is Consulting On

The CAA is seeking views on a shortlist of regulatory approaches for Heathrow expansion. These include:

• A modified version of the current regulatory model used for Heathrow Airport Limited.

• Models involving greater competitive pressure in the design, construction, or operation of new infrastructure.

• Potential third-party development arrangements for new runway or terminal infrastructure.

• How consumer interests should be protected during expansion delivery.

• How risks and costs should be allocated between investors, airport operators, airlines, and passengers.

• The incentives needed to ensure efficient delivery and financial resilience.

The consultation also considers how future regulatory arrangements could support government objectives for airport expansion while maintaining appropriate economic oversight.

Who Should Respond

The consultation is likely to be relevant for:

• Airlines and aviation industry organisations

• Airports and infrastructure developers

• Local authorities and planning bodies

• Community and resident groups around Heathrow

• Environmental and noise campaign organisations

• Investors and infrastructure stakeholders

• Passengers and consumer-interest organisations

• Businesses with an interest in UK connectivity and aviation growth

How to Respond

You can submit your views through the CAA consultation page:

https://www.caa.co.uk/data-and-publications/publications/documents/content/cap3251/

The consultation closes on 15 June 2026.

Next Steps

Consultation opens: May 2026
Consultation closes: 15 June 2026
CAA review of responses: Summer 2026

Future regulatory decisions and potential implementation: Subject to wider Heathrow expansion and government policy processes