Heathrow Airport's operator has announced today it will commission a watchdog to make sure air and noise quality limits are not breached.

In a statement released today, BAA has said it “puts environmental limits before new flights”.

It continues saying that regardless of the theoretical capacity by mixed-mode and a third runway, the airport will only raise the number of flights if it operates within these environmental limits.

Colin Matthews, chief executive of BAA said that Heathrow will only increase the number of flights using its two existing runways (mix-mode) at peak times when the airport has significantly enhanced punctuality and reliability to a standard developed with airlines, passengers and business groups.

He added that this approach will reduce the environmental impacts of 'stacking' in the sky before landing, and queuing on congested taxiways prior to departure.

However, campaigners fighting against a third runway at the airport have long been arguing that extra capacity will mean more pollution.

Mr Matthews, said: “We have listened to the many arguments around expansion at Heathrow. Although the economic case remains compelling, we understand that we can only increase the number of flights if we can safeguard levels of noise and air quality.

“By calling on an independent assessor to scrutinise the airport's performance against these 'limits', we are providing an uncompromising assurance that we will operate Heathrow Airport within limits laid down by Government.

“If we don't, the number of flights in and out of Heathrow could be capped.”

Those opposing to expansion are also against mixed-mode which will see the runways being used for take-offs and landings, where are they currently operate using alternate runways.

Mr Matthews added: “We are announcing today that we would take advantage of mixed mode to increase the number of flights in and out of Heathrow at peak times only when punctuality has improved to an agreed standards.

“Today, Heathrow operates at 99.7 per cent capacity, reducing resilience when problems arise.

“The extra flexibility offered by mix-mode and the third runway will enable Heathrow to match the reliability of its international competitors.”

What do you think about Mr Matthews' statement? Is BAA under pressure due to the high level of opposition?

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