Plans for Britain's airport expansion will now be delayed until next autumn following the High Court's ruling that Gatwick had to be included, the transport secretary has told MPs.

Forum Response: British Airways

A spokesman for British Airways said: "Of the runway options in the government's consultation paper, we believe that a third short runway at Heathrow is essential if Britain is to have an effective international airport hub. However, we need to ensure that there is sufficient airport capacity for all airlines whether they are full service, no-frills, charter or cargo.

"The government's consultation paper covers a 30 year period and the agreement between BAA and West Sussex County Council expires in 2019 when an additional runway at Gatwick should be considered along with all the other options.

"Britain's airport infrastructure is already lagging behind that of other European countries and we urge the government to reach a decision about future airport capacity as soon as possible. As well as ensuring that Britain will continue to gain economic benefits from aviation, a speedy decision will also help reduce uncertainty in the aviation industry and in those local communities that would be directly affected by runway developments."

Forum Response: Freedom to Fly

A spokesman for Freedom to Fly said: "Freedom to Fly is perfectly happy for Gatwick post 2019 to be included in the consultation. What is really important is that there is no undue delay. People need to know what the future will hold as soon as possible, so they can plan ahead with confidence."

"It is notable that the objectors want the options for expanding airports to include Gatwick. They are not contesting the need for expansion or the government's calculation that demand is likely to double within the next 20 years"

Forum Response: Institute of Directors

A spokesman for the IoD told ePolitix.com: "If London and the south east are to maintain their competitive advantage over European competitors, particularly Paris and Frankfurt, then the expansion of runway capacity in the region is essential.

"The projected growth in air traffic over the next twenty years makes airport expansion inevitable. To ignore this fact would be economically damaging to the UK."