Heathrow: budget row threatens to further delay third runway

Airlines back cheaper rival bid, warning projected spend could increase passenger costsThe chances of a smooth takeoff for Heathrow’s expansion plans were always slim, but an unexpected obstacle has arisen in the path of a third runway. Some of Britain’s biggest airlines have lent their voices to a rival proposal to develop Heathrow for about £5bn less than the airport itself declares necessary, fuelling a row over costs and throwing fresh uncertainty on the scheme.A crucial vo