Airports expansion costs higher than expected

The UK faces urgent airport capacity expansion needs, but the Airports Commission highlights underestimated costs. Past infrastructure projects show optimism bias, leading to a 20% cost buffer. Rejected proposals include Stansted and Thames Estuary, leaving options at Heathrow and Gatwick. Heathrow proposes a new runway and terminal for £14.8 billion or extending the northern runway for £10.1 billion. Gatwick suggests a new runway and terminal for £7.4 billion. Both airports justify their cost estimates, with Heathrow citing past successes. The Airports Commission awaits public feedback before making recommendations post-election.

What is the main reason the Airports Commission added a 20% buffer to the cost estimates?

• To include additional security measures

• To address optimism bias

• To cover unexpected environmental costs

• To account for inflation

Which airport option was rejected by the Airports Commission in September?

• An extension of the northern runway at Heathrow

• A new airport in the Thames Estuary

• A new terminal at Gatwick

• A new runway at Stansted

What is the estimated cost of the new runway and terminal at Heathrow?

• £20 billion

• £14.8 billion

• £10.1 billion

• £7.4 billion

How much has Heathrow invested in rebuilding the airport over the last 10 years?

• £5 billion

• £11 billion

• £20 billion

• £15 billion

What does Heathrow emphasize as its strength in the airport expansion debate?

• Its experience in delivering projects on time and budget

• Its partnerships with international airlines

• Its environmental sustainability initiatives

• Its ability to innovate new technologies