MP "NO MIXED MODE FLIGHTS"

3.09.07pm GMT Wed 19th Mar 2003

Jenny Tonge, Liberal Democrat MP for Richmond Park, has reacted with fury to reports that three British airlines are backing plans for an extra ten flights an hour into Heathrow Airport.

The flights would arise from a "mixed mode" runways scheme where runways are used for both take-offs and landings.

British Airways, British Midlands and Virgin Atlantic are behind the plans, which would mean residents had no respite from landings, as both runways would be used from 4am until 11.30pm.

The MP said: "It is absolutely outrageous when the Government promised to curb the environmental damage caused by this over used airport that extra flights are being considered."

"Noise and pollution from Heathrow airport is already destroying the lives of my constituents and others who live in South West London.

"This plan to allow 10 extra flights per hour will only add to people's misery before terminal 5 has even been built."