London Biggin Hill Airport has estimated that it contributed £200 million ($250 million) to the UK economy in 2023, and in a report published on Wednesday, the business aviation hub said this figure could rise to more than £630 million in the future. The privately-owned airport in the southeast of the British capital commissioned Lichfields to conduct independent research on its economic impact, focusing on its role in driving investment, as well as supporting employment and economic benefits both locally and nationally.
According to the study’s findings, between 2012 and 2023, the gross value added (GVA) generated directly by airport-based businesses increased by 47.8% from £89 million to £131.4 million. On top of that figure, these companies spent £155.7 million in the wider UK economy.
Last year, Lichfields estimated that Biggin Hill supported 2,692 “full-time equivalent” jobs, of which 1,760 positions were at the airport site. That represented an increase of 80% since 2012, and every 1,000 business aircraft movements have been calculated to support 88 jobs and £6.74 million in GVA.
Looking more closely at the London borough of Bromley, in which the airport is situated, as much as £142.9 million of the total GVA was concentrated in that local area. The GVA spread across the whole of London amounted to £154 million.
“This data showcases how far the airport has come in the last decade, and the exciting future we are working towards,” said Biggin Hill’s CEO, David Winstanley. “We continue to strengthen community relationships and are proud to play a pivotal role in national and global infrastructure.”
According to Lichfields, the airport site, which has been designated as a Strategic Outer London Development Centre, could support up to 7,649 jobs and generate £636 million annually in GVA. The report determined that this progress would be contingent on local officials approving the airport's plans for further development.
By 2029, Biggin Hill aims to ensure that its operations are completely carbon-neutral. The airport, which already provides sustainable aviation fuel through a partnership with Air bp, is now exploring plans to attract new reduced- and zero-carbon electric-powered aircraft.