AXE (Against eXpansion at Eastleigh)

IN MY VIEW

Chris Bluemel: co-ordinator of AXE

Talk of sustainability is now mainstream. Environmental issues feature in the rhetoric of most political parties, school inspections now cover sustainability, and businesses are keen to demonstrate their eco-credentials. Oh, and, er, the local airport wants to almost treble its flight numbers by 2030.

BAA Southampton claim to be committed to reducing noise, air pollution and greenhouse gases through technological advances. However, it is hard to see how all three aspirations can be met. Open-rotor jet engines could reduce fuel consumption by 50%, but are noisier than current models. Propeller planes use far less fuel and are quieter than jets, but as they are slower, they are used on fewer flights.

Increases in flight numbers will outweigh any such improvements. In 1992, annual passenger numbers at Southampton stood at 200,000; today the figure is nearly 2 million (on 44,000 flights), and BAA aspire to 6 million by 2030. Across the UK, carbon dioxide emissions from domestic aviation alone have almost doubled since 1990, and the Department of Transport forecasts further increases. Very few people outside the industry or government would argue that this could be compatible with the 60% cut to which the UK is committed.

77% of the forecast growth at Southampton is on domestic flights, somewhat extravagant on such a small island. Both these and many of the international destinations served by Southampton can be reached by train within a few hours. CO2 emissions per passenger-km would be around ten times lower. Check-in times are shorter, so if you dislike the airport security hassle, this is a clear alternative. A modal switch from planes to trains would make airport expansion unnecessary.

The promised 'economic benefits' are questionable. In 2004, overseas visitors to South East England spent £1.2bn whilst South East residents flying abroad spent £3.9bn, resulting in a regional deficit of £2.7bn. If the airport expands, this deficit will increase, as outward tourism is growing faster than inward tourism. Furthermore, 49% of the airport's customers are in socio-economic groups A and B, and only 5% in groups D and E. The industry only thrives through exemptions from VAT and fuel duty, and they are currently demanding that the government pays for their security.

In any case, economic benefits cannot be confused with quality of life. You cannot buy clean air or a good night's sleep. nor can you buy your way out of climate change. AXE will campaign against any infrastructure expansion, for flight numbers to be capped at 50,000, and for any further developments to improve the quality of life for local people. To join us, e-mail info@axe.org.uk.