So, it's now down to a Commons vote.
"Controversial plans for a third runway at Heathrow Airport have been approved by ministers.
The government's economic sub-committee, chaired by Prime Minister Theresa May, backed the plans which were then approved by her full cabinet.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said it was a "historic moment".
Announcing £2.6bn in compensation for residents and noise abatement measures, he said it would only proceed if air quality obligations were met.
"The time for action is now," he told MPs, insisting the decision was being taken in the national interest and would benefit the whole of the UK.
The scheme, he insisted, would be entirely funded by private investment and while the expansion was a "number of years away", he believed it could be concluded by 2026.
MPs will be asked to vote on the expansion plans in the coming weeks."
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-44357580