Expanding Heathrow will create up to 16,100 new skilled jobs in Scotland

With Heathrow expansion, Scotland will benefit from the creation of over 16,000 jobs, lower air fares for passengers and new domestic connections to drive trade, inward investment and exports to global markets, according to a new report by Heathrow.

In addition, new figures from independent research company QUOD show that Heathrow expansion would prove a boost to the Scottish manufacturing sector which would be spurred on by the creation of up to 7,000 new skilled jobs. As well as being an export industry which will benefit significantly from improved trade links, the Scottish manufacturing sector will benefit directly from Heathrow’s expansion programme as the airport sources materials and services to build the a new runway and terminal facilities.

A diverse supply chain spread across the whole of the UK will be critical to delivering an expanded Heathrow on time and on budget. That’s why Heathrow established a Procurement Strategy Forum earlier this year, which includes a representative from the Scottish Government, to work with Heathrow on developing a procurement strategy which maximises the opportunities for growth in Scotland. The Forum has its inaugural meeting on the 28th October. Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said:

“An expanded Heathrow will deliver jobs and growth for Scotland – creating over 16,000 new skilled jobs and delivering up to £14 billion in economic growth. With more capacity at the UK’s only hub, it’ll also be cheaper for Scottish exports to get to market with up to 40 new long haul links. Scottish passengers will see new connections to cities like Inverness, increased competition on existing routes and lower fares as low-cost carriers like easyJet boost links between Scotland and an expanded Heathrow. Let’s build it.”