In its final master plan, published in January, Biggin Hill airport states that it plans to limit the development of the site and make 'better use of the existing runways.'

Airport director Peter Lonergan said: "The Government's White Paper says that air travel is essential to the UK economy and to our continued prosperity.

"Many businesses, in both manufacturing and service industries, rely on air travel and it is particularly important for many of the fastest growing sectors of the economy. Visitors by air are crucial to UK tourism.

"All this puts pressure on airports, and because environmental impacts cause genuine concern for people nearby, the Government has sought to plan ahead through its national air transport strategy."

In order to remain attractive to operators, Biggin Hill intends to maintain current weekday operating hours (0630 to 2200) but review restrictions on the first and last hours of the day. An extension of three and a half hours on weekends will be offset by opening one hour later (0730 to 2200).

Other proposals include a decrease in the number of flights, as well as limiting the number of jet movements, and putting a cap on the size of aircraft operating there. Noise pollution monitoring and reduction are also key aspects of the plan.

"This master plan sets out a reasonable balance, as required, between the airport's social, economic and environmental impacts," said Lonergan. "The proposals maintain the pride in the airport's past and provide the confidence that everyone needs in its long-term future."