Britain delays decision on Heathrow expansion

LONDON - Britain says it has delayed its decision on whether to build a third runway at London's Heathrow airport.

Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon says the decision will be made in January instead of this month as had been planned.

Airports operator BAA says Heathrow needs an extra runway by 2020 to cope with increased demand. Heathrow is Europe's busiest airport.

Campaigners have opposed the plan, saying expansion will increase noise pollution and harm the environment.

Some officials favor building a new airport rather than expanding Heathrow. London Mayor Boris Johnson has suggested a new site in the Thames River estuary, east of London.

Hoon said Thursday he will consider the issue further before making a decision on the runway.

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