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British Airways and Virgin Atlantic are opposing Heathrow Airport's £49 billion expansion, including a third runway, citing high operational costs and a need for a revised funding model. They are the largest carriers at Heathrow, scheduling 8,996 and 850 flights respectively in February 2026.

The UK government has approved the expansion, but challenges remain, including airspace modernization and regulatory hurdles. Heathrow aims to increase Sustainable Aviation Fuel use by 5.6% by 2026, amid concerns about rising charges and congestion at the airport.