Scotland has always been a nation of global ambition. From the finest whisky and salmon to life sciences and renewable energy, our products and expertise are in demand worldwide. But in today’s fiercely competitive global economy, success is not only about what we produce – it is about how quickly and reliably we reach markets. That is why Heathrow’s expansion matters so much to Scotland.
As the UK’s only hub airport, Heathrow is our gateway to the world. It already connects Scotland to 230 destinations in 85 countries, placing 92% of the global economy within a direct flight’s reach. Every year, more than 575,000 business passengers travel to and from Scotland via Heathrow, supporting trade deals, inward investment, tourism and collaboration. Yet Heathrow is operating at full capacity. Without expansion, our connectivity risks stagnation at the very moment when competitor airports are pressing ahead.
A lifeline for Scotland’s exporters
For Scotland’s exporters, Heathrow is indispensable. The airport handles 72% of all UK air cargo by value. From Aberlour-based Walker’s Shortbread to premium whisky distillers and seafood exporters, Scottish goods move through Heathrow to reach shelves in over 100 countries. An expanded hub, with 50% more cargo capacity, will mean faster, more resilient supply chains and greater reach for high-value and time-sensitive sectors such as seafood, advanced manufacturing, and life sciences.
More flights, more choice, more growth
Expansion will unlock at least 30 new daily routes and enable up to 756,000 flights a year. For Scottish firms, that translates into easier access to emerging markets and a broader choice of carriers. For business leaders flying out of Scottish airports, it will mean less time waiting for connections and more time driving growth.
Economic impact across Scotland
This is not just about Heathrow or London. Sixty per cent of the economic benefits of expansion are projected to be felt outside the South East. For Scotland, that means new opportunities in every region. Heathrow expansion will catalyse investment in Scottish supply chains, create jobs, and embed Scotland’s expertise at the heart of global aviation..
A strategic choice we cannot delay
The vision is clear: global competitiveness, resilient trade routes, and a platform for sustainable growth. The risks of inaction are equally clear. Without expansion, Heathrow remains at capacity, while rival hubs extend their reach. Scotland’s businesses cannot afford that constraint.
This is a project that requires no taxpayer funding. It is shovel-ready, privately financed, and backed by business. It aligns with the UK’s growth ambitions and Scotland’s own international and trade aims.
The time to act is now
Heathrow expansion is not just a London story. It is a Scotland story – about our exporters, our innovators, and our people. It is about ensuring that our products reach new markets, that our firms attract fresh investment, and that our economy competes on the global stage.
Scotland has the talent, the ambition, and the products. Heathrow has the connectivity. Together, expansion offers us a gateway to a stronger, more competitive future.
