Heathrow handled more than 5.7 million passengers in February, including a 7% rise in transatlantic traffic to the US and Canada.
Average daily passengers exceeded 200,000 for the 12th month in succession, however the total was down 1.5% year-on-year.
The London hub reported a spike in interest from winter sun seekers for destinations across the Caribbean, Italy and Greece.
Routes to global business hubs including Delhi, Dubai, Mumbai and Riyadh were consistently taking off with higher load factors.
“One month on from announcing Heathrow’s commitment to invest in the UK’s gateway to growth, initial proposals are being developed for the privately funded expansion of Heathrow for the government to review this summer,” a statement said.
“Alongside the Department for Transport and Transportation Security Administration, Heathrow began a ‘one stop security’ pilot in February to improve journeys. It offers streamlined transfers for passengers on selected routes from North America connecting to the rest of the world. The landmark agreement strengthens the UK’s hub and is made possible by the world-class aviation security systems in both countries and the support of participating airlines.”
Heathrow confirmed a 7.5% carbon reduction in the air, and 15% on the ground since 2019 in its 2024 sustainability report published last week, while serving record passenger numbers, keeping on track for its 2030 targets.
The airport also reported that the number of late running flights fell last year, despite being the busiest 12 months ever. Meanwhile, all air quality monitors around Heathrow continued to meet UK pollution limits.
More is being done, including an incentive to reach 3% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage this year, one percentage point ahead of the government’s target, the airport noted.
Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye said: “Even during a traditionally quiet month for aviation in February, we saw sustained and growing demand to fly and export through Heathrow.
“As the UK’s gateway to growth, we must meet this increase in demand and do it without compromising our strategy to decarbonise and reduce noise impacts.
“While we welcome the progress that’s been achieved alongside our partners, there’s no complacency – reaching net zero as we grow remains vital.”