Heathrow Airport has declared that expanding its facilities is “crucial” following its busiest May in history.

In the past month, over 7.2 million passengers passed through its four terminals, marking a 0.4% increase compared to the same month last year.

A spokesperson for Heathrow remarked, “With record passenger numbers becoming the norm, it’s vital to engage in an honest dialogue about the challenges posed by operating within a space-limited yet highly efficient hub.”

Critics of the west London airport’s expansion contend that rising air travel would hinder the UK’s ability to fulfill its climate change obligations. London’s Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, opposes the addition of a third runway, citing concerns about noise and air pollution.

The spokesperson further stated, “While Heathrow continues to provide outstanding service, expanding capacity is crucial for maintaining this level of performance and accommodating future demand.”

The airport has indicated that it will present detailed plans for a third runway to the government this summer.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressed her backing for the project in a growth-oriented speech in January, despite the plans facing prolonged delays for decades due to environmental issues.

Friends of the Earth have labeled the proposed expansion as “extremely irresponsible.”

Alethea Warrington, head of aviation at the climate charity Possible, commented earlier this year, “This significant rise in emissions will not benefit our economy and would primarily serve to support the small number of frequent flyers who account for most of the flights.”

Residents of nearby Harmondsworth conveyed to the BBC that if the expansion proceeds, “three-quarters of the village would be demolished,” rendering it an unviable community.