The operator aims to extend the terminal space by around a quarter replicating the existing terminal building design.

According to newly published planning inspectorate documents, the existing building will be extended by 54m towards the airfield side along its 306m existing length.

Its north extension will be built on land currently occupied by the Track Transit System, which will be replaced with new sky walkways to the three satellite terminals at the airport.

Designed by Pascall+Watson and Mott MacDonald, the expansion will provide a more spacious departure lounge for more shops, bars and restaurants, as well as increased baggage system capacity and an enlarged security hall.

London Stansted has been one of the fastest-recovering airports following the lifting of international travel restrictions last year, serving more than 26 million passengers in the last 12 months.

Gareth Powell, London Stansted’s managing director, said: “The speed with which we’ve seen Stansted bounce back after the pandemic shows how important our airport is in the UK’s aviation system.

“We have used the last few years to conduct a thorough review of the options for the next phase of investment, and it’s clear that extending the terminal is the best way of delivering improved service and new capacity.”