LONDON — Heathrow Airport's expansion plans have entered a new stage after the UK aviation regulator imposed limits on the amount the airport can recover from passengers for the early costs of its proposed third runway.

The Civil Aviation Authority has ruled that Heathrow can charge approximately 15 pence more per passenger in 2028 to help fund early development work connected with the expansion.

The decision comes as Heathrow continues preparations for a major increase in airport capacity. The proposed third runway is one of the UK's biggest infrastructure projects, with supporters arguing that additional capacity could strengthen London's international connections and support economic growth.

However, the regulator's decision also highlights the financial scrutiny surrounding the project. Heathrow must balance the huge investment required for expansion against the impact of higher airport charges on airlines and passengers.

The latest ruling does not mean the third runway is fully approved or under construction. It instead sets limits around the costs that can be recovered from passengers during the early stages of the development process.

The project is likely to remain politically and economically significant, with questions around infrastructure investment, airport capacity, environmental concerns and the future competitiveness of Britain's aviation sector.

For passengers, the immediate impact is limited, but the decision provides an important indication of how regulators intend to control the financial burden of Heathrow's long-term expansion plans.