The scheme will bring the airport’s northern runway into routine use, creating capacity for an extra 40,000 flights before the new strip opens and 70,000 more once it is fully operational – almost 190 additional flights every day.
The £2.2bn private finance development covers new taxiways, terminal extensions, roads, rivers and other supporting works.
Gatwick Airport Limited lodged the application in July 2023, with the six-month examination completed on schedule after public hearings and submissions from local authorities and interested groups.
The Examining Authority made its recommendations to the Transport Secretary in November 2024.
Following full consideration of local views and the evidence, ministers have now given the go-ahead.
It is the 60th transport application approved under the Planning Act 2008, with officials stressing that community involvement was central to the process.
The airport argues the expansion will boost UK connectivity, create jobs and cement Gatwick’s role as a global hub.
Local critics warn of more noise, pollution and road congestion. The project is worth billions and will be one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades in the south east this decade.
