Heathrow hails record 2025 as passenger numbers surpass 84m

Heathrow has hailed a record 2025 with passenger numbers surpassing 84 million for the first time.

The record was achieved after the London hub reported its busiest December on record, with almost 7.2 million passengers.   

Heathrow is now preparing for another record-breaking year in 2026, backed by investment of more than £1.3 billion.

The airport retained its crown as Europe’s most punctual hub last month, with more than 97% of passengers waiting less than five minutes for security. 

Baggage performance also improved to more than 98% load rate in 2025, putting an extra 250,000 bags on their intended flights compared to 2024, according to the airport. 

Highlights in the year include the busiest day ever on August 1, when passenger numbers topped 270,000, and outperforming 2024 in nine of 12 months.

Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye said: “December’s record-breaking performance shows the strength of demand for Heathrow and the benefit to passengers of the great service our colleagues are providing. 

“Last year, there was no hub airport in Europe that was more punctual than Heathrow and we look forward to building on that success in 2026. 

“With the government’s support for our expansion plans, and the right regulatory framework from the CAA to secure private investment, we can unlock even more of that connectivity, trade and economic growth for the UK.”