Overview

• The VGH released its written reasons explaining why the 2016 plan-approval will not lapse in March 2026, following its July 30 dismissal of challenges.
• Judges cite roughly 70 of 300 hectares already acquired, a 1.8‑kilometer S‑Bahn tunnel tied to a new apron, and about €270 million in spending as evidence of a project start.
• Municipalities, Bund Naturschutz and private plaintiffs are considering a time‑limited complaint against the refusal to admit a revision to the Federal Administrative Court, with activists warning of potential costs.
• The court states there is no statutory deadline to complete the runway and that annulment would require objective signs of abandonment, leaving long‑term uncertainty for residents.
• Political statements do not override the 2011 unanimous shareholder resolution backing expansion, and although a state moratorium limits immediate construction, the legal approval remains effective.