Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed strong approval for the £1.1 billion investment in Stansted Airport, detailed by Manchester Airports Group. This strategic initiative is poised to significantly enhance the airport’s capacity and infrastructure.
The investment, announced at a prestigious summit, represents a forward-looking approach to bolster both passenger experience and the local economy. With ambitious plans for terminal expansion and sustainability measures, Stansted is gearing up for its most transformative phase yet.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has commended the Manchester Airports Group (MAG) for its substantial £1.1 billion investment at Stansted Airport, announced at the London global investment summit. This ambitious plan is a significant step for Stansted, aiming to accommodate a greater number of passengers and enhance the airport’s services.
The central feature of MAG’s investment is a £600 million extension to Stansted’s existing terminal. This development is set to provide a more expansive environment, featuring additional seating and a variety of new retail and dining options. The extension will not only enhance passenger experience but also enable the airport to support up to 43 million passengers annually and create approximately 5,000 new jobs.
Stansted’s £1.1 billion investment programme includes several sustainable initiatives. These aim to improve the passenger experience while also focusing on environmental responsibility. With plans for a 14.3MW on-site solar farm, MAG is committed to meeting current and future energy demands sustainably. Additionally, the airport is set to introduce advanced security technologies and improve terminal facilities.
The investment also encompasses enhancements in passenger amenities, such as the creation of new wayfinding kiosks and reconfiguration of gate areas. These improvements are designed to offer more space for passengers before boarding. Upgrades in flooring and seating, along with refurbished terminal facilities, are anticipated to further enhance comfort for travellers.
In the year leading up to September 2024, Stansted Airport handled a record 29.3 million passengers, marking its busiest year yet. The planned updates are timely, intended to address the increasing passenger numbers and the evolving demands of travellers. This growth phase is expected to increase Stansted’s economic impact, doubling its annual contribution to £2 billion.
Gareth Powell, Managing Director of Stansted Airport, highlighted the airport’s advantage of operating a single terminal. This set-up offers a simple and seamless travel experience, which Stansted aims to maintain while expanding its facilities. Powell expressed enthusiasm for the airport’s role in supporting London’s future travel capacity needs, citing increased choices for airlines and the development of a more robust route network.
Stansted Airport’s extensive investment plans underscore its commitment to growth and innovation, setting a new benchmark for airport development. As these initiatives unfold, the benefits will extend beyond mere capacity enhancements, reflecting broader economic and environmental gains.
This move cements Stansted’s position as a key player in the UK aviation sector, with potential long-term benefits for both passengers and the regional economy.