Boris Johnson attacks government aviation policy

London Mayor Boris Johnson yesterday launched his strongest attack yet on government aviation policy, saying delays making firm decisions set a course for “economic catastrophe”.

He described the government as paying “lamentable attention” to the pressing issue of more airport capacity.

And Mr Johnson said a third runway at Heathrow airport was not the answer and what was needed was a four-runway airport, possibly in the Thames Estuary or Stansted airport in Essex.

The government has appointed former Financial Services Authority chief Sir Howard Davies to lead an independent commission into airport capacity needs.

But his final report is not due until summer 2015 – after the next general election.