Heathrow will introduce an Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) by 2022 that will target polluting passenger cars and taxis that drive to and from the airport.
This will come before the introduction of a wider Vehicle Access Charge (VAC) being introduced when their third runway opens in 2026. The expansion is expected to see passenger numbers almost double from 80 million to 130 million a year.
Heathrow believes that their ULEZ will help tackle the extra air pollution on roads around Heathrow by encouraging passengers to travel via public transport.
Heathrow plans to mirror the London ULEZ minimum vehicle emissions standards with charges expected to be between £10-15. They say that revenue generated from the ULEZ and VAC will help fund initiatives to improve sustainable transport.
Heathrow Chief Executive John Holland-Kaye said: “Heathrow Expansion is not a choice between the economy and the environment – we must deliver for both.
“Today’s announcement shows that we will take the tough decisions to ensure that the airport grows responsibly.”
