Chancellor John Healey has asserted that building a third runway at Heathrow Airport has "always been a case for growth," emphasizing its potential to drive economic expansion. His remarks at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Bangkok come as the government reviews public consultation feedback on the proposed expansion.

Airport expansion, particularly at Heathrow, has historically been a significant contributor to job creation and economic development in recent decades. The proposed third runway has been a subject of debate for years, facing considerable opposition from local residents, environmental campaigners, and some political figures.

Healey reiterated that the "case for a third runway at Heathrow has always been a case for growth." He noted that the formal consultation led by the Transport Department has concluded, and the government is now reviewing the responses before making further decisions. The government's formal position is that decisions will follow the review of the consultation.

The implications of Healey's comments suggest a continued governmental consideration of the project, potentially signaling a shift towards prioritizing economic benefits. The expansion, if approved, could significantly increase Heathrow's capacity, impacting travel, trade, and the national economy.

Healey's predecessor, Rachel Reeves, had previously placed Heathrow's expansion at the forefront of arguments for Britain being "open for business." Last year, Reeves announced the government-backed expansion, stating that a third runway was "badly needed" and the government "could not duck the decision any longer."

In contrast, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has expressed more skepticism. Last month, Burnham told the BBC that the expansion was a matter for London and its residents, suggesting it was not his place to "jump straight in." He indicated a preference for hearing the voices of the people directly affected first.

Heathrow's chief executive, Thomas Woldbye, warned earlier this week that not building a third runway would be a "huge missed opportunity." Woldbye expressed a desire for clarity on the government's position and hoped for the Prime Minister's support. He highlighted that the benefits of an expanded Heathrow would extend beyond London, reaching "all over the country" through its supply chain.

The project, which has an estimated cost of £33 billion, aims to increase the number of flights from the current cap of 480,000 per year to 720,000. This expansion would necessitate significant infrastructure changes, including the demolition of hundreds of homes and rerouting of the M25 motorway. The planned opening date has faced potential delays, with suggestions of a shift from 2035 to 2039 due to planning and regulatory hurdles.