British pilots are urging the Government to do all it can to get airport expansion plans back on track after campaigners won a Court of Appeal ruling over plans for third runway at Heathrow on environment grounds.

The British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA) says that delays to expansion will only increase congestion, provide an obstacle to trade and will have a detrimental effect on jobs in the sector and the economy.

BALPA says the industry is already doing huge amounts to tackle the climate issue with a commitment being made earlier this month to cut carbon emissions to zero by 2050.

BALPA General secretary Brian Strutton said:

“We understand the challenge that the aviation industry faces when it comes to climate change but also recognise the vital contribution to the UK economy that the industry makes.

“Without expansion we will see further congestion, stagnation in the sector and will struggle to keep pace with global competitors.

“We urge the Government to ensure that Heathrow expansion fits within its Paris climate obligations and does so as quickly as possible. We need to get this done.”