Court ruling allows third runway at Munich Airport

A ruling by the Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig has permitted the construction of a third runway at Munich Airport following the dismissal of six appeals.

Munich Airport has welcomed the court’s ruling to dismiss remaining appeals made by an environmental group and several individuals.

Commenting on the news, Dr. Michael Kerkloh, the President and CEO of Munich Airport said: “Today’s decision means that our construction permit can no longer be contested, which now gives us legal certainty for this vital expansion project. Ten years after the launch of the project, the highest German administrative court has now issued a final ruling, stating that our plans meet all relevant requirements in terms of project planning and under the law.”

According to Munich Airport, ‘the rulings of the Federal Administrative Court confirm the air traffic projections and the expansion requirements of Munich Airport. The court has also concluded that the plans do not violate European guidelines on the protection of the environment and natural habitat. The court found the noise protection concept for the expansion project to be in compliance with the law as well as the air pollution assessment and the defined compensation regulations for residents of neighbouring communities.’

Dr. Kerkloh added, “Now the final decision on the realization of this urgently needed capacity expansion project rests with our three shareholders. I am confident that they will use the opportunity to expand the airport to keep pace with demand and to secure the long-term future of our hub as a key competitive factor for the entire state of Bavaria, both in terms of business and employment.”