Back Heathrow campaign response to Civil Aviation Authority price cap proposal

Back Heathrow, the campaign group that represents over 100,000 residents that live close to the airport, has welcomed the airport’s assurances on jobs and pay to staff, but expressed concern that the Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) price cap proposals would be welcomed by rival hub airports on the continent.

Parmjit Dhanda, Executive Director of Back Heathrow said:

“As a group that wants to see Heathrow thrive and grow, for the benefit of the UK economy and local communities, we are disappointed that the CAA hasn’t allowed for more investment in passenger services, and to go further and faster on the sustainability agenda. Despite that, I am pleased to have assurances from the airport that there will be no negative impact on jobs, pay and conditions. Recruitment will go on as planned, which is important news locally after some tough years.”

Back Heathrow will continue to work with trade unions and Heathrow to ensure that remains the case, particularly as the airport proceeds with its sustainability agenda.

Mr Dhanda added: “The CAA needs to consider the importance of the passenger experience and the rollout of the sustainability agenda at our only hub airport. If it can’t invest more in these key areas, rival hubs in Paris, Amsterdam and Frankfurt will be the beneficiaries.”

Back Heathrow hopes the CAA will reconsider ahead of its final decision in the autumn.  

Ends

Notes to Editors

·    More information on the CAA proposals can be found here.