The decision, issued by the Planning Inspectorate after a hearing on October 17th, will usher in a new era for the airport, accommodating its growth within approved limits. The expansion will encompass a 16,500m2 three-bay extension at the rear of the terminal building.
This extension aims to revolutionise the airport experience, providing passengers with a more spacious departure lounge, additional seating, an expanded selection of shops, bars, and restaurants, state-of-the-art check-in desks, increased baggage capacity, and an enlarged security hall equipped with next-generation scanners. The project’s ultimate goal is to enhance every step of the passenger journey, from check-in to immigration.
Stansted Airport, which has been the fastest recovering airport in London, having served over 27 million passengers in the past year, is now poised for growth. This extension will allow the Essex airport to increase its capacity during peak periods and create the extra space needed to support projected growth.
Gareth Powell, the Managing Director of London Stansted, expressed excitement about the project’s approval, stating that it will transform the airport experience for passengers, employees, and partners. He emphasised the airport’s unique position as a single-terminal facility, which enables it to provide a straightforward, efficient, and reliable experience for travellers. Stansted aims to become the airport of choice for even more passengers by enhancing its facilities and attracting a wider range of airlines to offer an even better selection of destinations, ultimately contributing to the region’s economic growth, job creation, and improved connectivity. London Stansted Airport is set to play a vital role in meeting the future capacity needs of London and the East of England.
