Heathrow expansion, in graphics

The UK's largest airport, Heathrow in London, may get a third runway as well as a sixth terminal building if proposals outlined by the transport secretary are enacted after a public consultation.

The graphics below show the site of the expanded Heathrow Airport, as well noise footprints and some estimates for future flight paths.

Source: Department for Transport

Creating a new 2,200m runway just north of the A4, as well as a new terminal will mean 700 properties, including the village of Sipson, will have to be destroyed.

PROJECTED NOISE FOOTPRINTS FOR HEATHROW EXPANSION

Source: Department for Transport

Key: 2002 Recent noise footprint showing sound at 57 decibels - the point at which the government says noise becomes "a community annoyance". There were 466,000 Air Transport Movements (ATMs) in 2002; defined as a plane taking off or landing.

2015 Estimated noise contour if planes were taking off and landing on both of Heathrow's runways. 540,000 ATMs a year, but before a third runway is built.

2030 A third noise contour projection showing three runways in action with 702,000 ATMs a year.

ESTIMATED ARRIVAL SWATHES, 2015

Source: Department for Transport

The graphic illustrates broad flight paths with an annual amount of 540,000 ATMs. This option shows what might happen before a third runway is up and running. The red boundary represents the area estimated to experience noise levels of 57 decibels. Note: Flight paths are subject to change

ESTIMATED DEPARTURE SWATHES, 2015

Source: Department for Transport

Here (and in the graphic above) both runways are in use for take offs and landings, currently planes land at one runway until 3pm and then on the other one for the rest of the day. This is to give residents near each runway half a day's break from the noise. The swathes finish at the point planes are expected to reach 4,000ft. The red boundary represents the area estimated to experience noise levels of 57 decibels.