A range of major airlines have publicly endorsed London Stansted growth plans that would allow the airport to accommodate up to 51 million passengers a year over the next two decades.
The proposal, currently under consideration by Uttlesford District Council, focuses on maximising the capacity of Stansted’s existing single runway by the 2040s. It does not seek to increase the number of flights already permitted and would remain entirely within the airport’s current boundary.
Under the London Stansted growth plans, higher passenger volumes would be delivered through the introduction of larger aircraft with increased seating capacity, rather than additional aircraft movements. This approach is presented as a way to unlock further capacity while remaining within existing operational limits.
The application follows a period of expansion in airline choice at Stansted, with new routes added and a broader mix of carriers beginning operations at the airport. Several of those airlines have now formally expressed support for the plans ahead of the council’s planning committee decision.
Airlines submitting letters of support include Emirates, Ryanair, Jet2.com, Pegasus, Ajet and Turkish Airlines.
If approved, the London Stansted growth plans are expected to support a range of outcomes. These include the creation of 4,500 new jobs linked to the airport’s training and education facilities, improvements to M11 Junction 8 to reduce congestion, funding for local bus services and roads, measures to address fly-parking, and a target for half of all passenger journeys to be made by public transport.
Gareth Powell, Managing Director of London Stansted, said the plans would have long-term regional benefits.
“London Stansted’s plans to sustainably grow the airport to serve up to 51 million passengers a year over the next two decades will help drive the on-going economic success along the innovation corridor from London to Cambridge and right across the east of England.
“This growth opportunity is clearly understood and strongly supported by our airline partners who will be able to serve more destinations and give passengers even more choice and great value options from their local airport.
“This strong backing by our airlines is really important and reflects our joint ambitions to continue growing and make the most of the available runway capacity at Stansted.
“If this application is approved, we will be able to unlock even more local opportunities and improvements over the next 20 years. We have an exciting and ambitious vision for London Stansted and how we best serve our region, so I’m delighted so many of our airlines are backing our plans.”
Airlines supporting the London Stansted growth plans highlighted fleet investment, route expansion and passenger demand as key factors.
David Neill, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at Jet2.com, said: “Jet2.com supports London Stansted Airport’s planning application to increase passenger capacity. Since launching operations from the airport in 2017, we have enjoyed tremendous success taking customers away on their well-deserved holidays.
“The introduction of our new Airbus A321neo aircraft – offering over 20% greater fuel efficiency and 50% less noise – demonstrates our commitment to sustainable growth and with 155 of these next-generation aircraft on order, we are well positioned to support London Stansted’s expansion and deliver long-term benefits for customers and the regional economy.”
Emirates pointed to sustained demand on its Dubai route and recent investments at the airport.
“Emirates’ popular Dubai service from London Stansted reflects the airport’s growing importance as a strategic hub for international connectivity. Since the route began in 2018, demand has remained consistently strong, with over 1.6 million passengers carried and load factors exceeding industry averages,” said Jabr Al-Azeeby, Emirates Divisional Vice President UK.
“The launch of our dedicated Emirates lounge and introduction of our newly retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring upgraded Business Class and Premium Economy cabins, underscores our commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience from the airport.
“Stansted’s continued growth presents a valuable opportunity – not just for enhancing global access, but for supporting regional business development, job creation, and long-term investment across the East and Southeast of England.”
Turkish Airlines also confirmed its support as it prepares to expand its UK network.
“London Stansted marks an exciting new chapter for UK operations of Turkish Airlines, the world’s most connected airline,” said Mehmet Gurulkan, General Manager for Turkish Airlines London. “Our third London gateway, launching in March 2026, will offer 14 weekly flights, giving our guests across the region convenient and seamless access to Istanbul – a major hub for international connectivity – and more than 350 destinations worldwide.
“We recognise Stansted’s growing role as a key international airport and are glad to support its ambitious growth plans while contributing to our greater global connectivity.”
Pegasus Airlines referenced its existing passenger volumes and regional role.
“Pegasus Airlines is proud to support Stansted Airport’s 43+ million passengers planning application,” said Elifnur Doğruöz, Group Head of Network Planning and Airline Collaborations. “As a key operator serving nearly 900,000 passengers in 2024, we recognise Stansted’s vital role in connecting the East of England to Türkiye and beyond. Increasing passenger capacity will enable greater route flexibility, strengthen regional connectivity, and enhance access to global markets.
“This proposal aligns with Stansted’s ongoing investment in passenger experience and operational excellence, and we believe it presents a valuable opportunity to drive sustainable growth and reinforce the region’s international competitiveness.”
AJet highlighted rising demand and terminal improvements as factors underpinning its backing of the London Stansted growth plans.
“AJet, Türkiye’s youngest airline, continues to experience strong demand for its London Stansted services,” said Kerem Sarp, AJet CEO. “This growing interest is driven by London’s strategic role within the global aviation ecosystem, combined with AJet’s expanding route network, modernised fleet, and increasing operational efficiency. Passenger volumes on AJet’s London routes remain on an upward trend, with load factors consistently exceeding industry averages – reinforcing the airline’s position in international markets.
“The ongoing renovation and modernization efforts at London Stansted Airport will further enable AJet to deliver a more seamless, comfortable, and high-quality terminal experience. This development aligns closely with our commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction and service excellence.”
