London Biggin Hill airport contributed $250.5 million (£200m) to the UK economy in 2023 and has the potential to deliver more than $789m (£630m) in the future. These are among the findings of a new independent economic report by UK planning and development consultancy Lichfields, highlighting the airport's role in driving investment, employment and positive economic change, both locally and nationally.

Between 2012 and 2023, the total Gross Value Added (GVA) generated directly by businesses on the airport site rose 47.8 per cent from $111.5m (£89m) to $164.6m (£131.4m). In 2022-2023, these innovative aviation-related businesses also spent $195m (£155.7m) in the UK economy. The benefits created by London Biggin Hill airport are clear to see and demonstrate the power of business aviation as a catalyst for economic growth.

Job creation is at the heart of the airport's current and future strategies. In 2023, London Biggin Hill airport and related businesses supported 2,692 full-time equivalent jobs, with 1,760 of these directly at the airport, a phenomenal increase of 80 per cent since 2012. For every 1,000 business air traffic movements, 88 jobs are supported at the airport and $8.4m (£6.74m) GVA is generated.

CEO David Winstanley says: "As the heartbeat of business aviation in London, London Biggin Hill airport is focused on driving inward investment to facilitate the creation of jobs, opportunities and economic growth, both locally and nationally.

"This data showcases how far the airport has come in the last decade and the exciting future we are working towards. We have seen a significant increase in jobs since 2012 and contributed £200 million to the UK economy in 2023. We continue to strengthen community relationships and are proud to play a pivotal role in national and global infrastructure.

"The Lichfield report highlights the potential for the airport to make an even greater contribution in the future as we continue to attract new business, build ongoing investment and drive positive change."

The report holds particularly good news for the London Borough of Bromley where the airport is situated. Of the $250.5m (£200m) GVA generated in 2023, $179m (£142.9m or 72 per cent) was captured within the south London borough. On a broader level, the airport's annual GVA within London measured $193m (£154m).

The report paints a picture of a bright future, estimating that the airport site, which is designated a Strategic Outer London Development Centre, has the potential to support up to 7,649 jobs and generate $796.5m (£636m) GVA if development plans receive support.

Sustainability is at the heart of these future ambitions. The airport was the first London airport to provide sustainable aviation fuel via its partnership with Air bp. The airport's goal is to become carbon neutral by 2029, and plans are in place to build a solar farm. With a history of innovation, the airport aims to be at the forefront of revolutionary changes in aviation technology and has land set aside to support cleaner, greener, quieter electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft.