Heathrow expansion moves forward despite profits dropping 37%, amid travel chaos, strikes, and security issues. UK’s busiest airport under pressure.
The UK government and NatWest have announced new initiatives to expand affordable housing, with NatWest setting a £10bn funding goal for social housing by 2028. Scotland plans to establish a new housing agency, while Dunkirk port regeneration includes a potential ferry route to Scotland, reflecting broader regional development efforts.
London Heathrow plans a major expansion, investing over £1 billion to increase capacity and improve passenger flow, while other airports like Dubai and Istanbul continue to grow record traffic. Heathrow faces criticism over crowding, but officials emphasize long-term infrastructure projects and sustainability efforts.
Heathrow reported a 37.3% drop in pre-tax profits for 2025, totaling £575 million, despite a record 84.5 million passengers. The airport's owners, including Ardian and Gulf sovereign funds, are pushing forward with plans for a third runway, with government approval expected later this year.
Over the past days, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks targeting US and regional assets, retaliating against US and Israeli strikes. The conflict has caused regional disruptions, including airspace closures, flight cancellations, and civilian casualties, with ongoing military exchanges and international concern.