Key features

Airport development would take place in phases with construction expected to start in 2011 and open for operations in 2015. Key features of the second runway development are:

• A second runway 3,048 metres long and 60 metres wide located parallel with and 2,200 metres to the east of the existing runway.
• A second terminal building located within walking distance of the existing terminal and public transport stations. The design of this 96,000m² building is intended to complement the existing terminal.
• A number of aircraft aprons and stands next to the existing terminal, served by four piers, connected to the new terminal.
• A series of airport buildings needed for the construction and operation of the expanded airport, such as a new control tower, hotels, offices, freight forwarding, industrial and catering areas.
• Additional cargo and maintenance facilities, alongside the existing cargo operation.
• Energy, water and waste infrastructure designed to improve the efficiency of consumption of resources and manage carbon emissions at the airport.
• Enhancements to the airport’s railway station including a second rail tunnel and a fourth platform. Bus and coach station enhancement allowing more routes and frequency of services.
• Changes to access routes to the airport from the M11 and A120; replacing local roads that will be stopped or diverted because of the expanded airport development.
• Changes to airspace patterns and routes to accommodate aircraft movements to and from the expanded airport.