Heathrow and Gatwick airports have announced that they are closely monitoring the presence of porous reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) on their sites in the wake of recent school closures connected to the material. Both airports have acknowledged prior discoveries of Raac but are now reevaluating their management plans in light of widespread media coverage and concerns.
Heathrow Airport stated that it had previously identified Raac within its infrastructure and had taken steps to ensure its safe containment until permanent solutions could be implemented. This material, known for its tendency to crumble, has come under scrutiny recently due to its discovery in various schools and public buildings, resulting in closures since the beginning of September.
The presence of Raac was initially uncovered at Heathrow Terminal 3 last year, prompting the airport to implement measures to mitigate potential risks associated with the material. Subsequently, Heathrow conducted a thorough review of its management plans and expressed satisfaction with their effectiveness in ensuring safety.
A spokesperson for Heathrow Airport emphasised the ongoing commitment to assess their estate and mitigate risks associated with Raac where it is found. They stated, “We have been assessing our estate and will continue to mitigate the risk where this material is found.”
On the other hand, Gatwick Airport has not expressed similar concerns. The airport reported that it has conducted regular inspections of Raac-containing locations on its campus, reassuring the public that these inspections have not raised any worries.
A spokesperson for Gatwick Airport confirmed, “We have a register of locations containing Raac on the airport campus, which are closely monitored through a regular comprehensive structural inspection regime.” The most recent inspection at Gatwick occurred in June and found no cause for concern. Gatwick intends to maintain routine monitoring of Raac to ensure the safety and integrity of its infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Manchester Airport also engaged in regular inspections to confirm the absence of Raac within its facilities. Additional inspections are underway to double-check for the material’s presence, but no concerns have arisen thus far.
