Passengers using BAA’s two London airports rose by more than two million to 66.7 million in the nine months to September.
Heathrow saw 6.1% growth to 52.6 million but Stansted, which the company is being forced to sell by the Competition Commission, saw a 2.1% drop to 14.4 million. BAA expects the Competition Appeals Tribunal to hear a judicial review into its opposition to the sale of Stansted in December.
Revenue at the two airports was up by 10.2% to £1.7 billion and adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation and exceptional items (EBITDA) up 17.1% to £842.2 million.
Heathrow achieved record monthly passenger traffic since April as the London hub airport recovered from last year’s Icelandic ash cloud and British Airways strike impact.
Chief executive Colin Matthews said: “Our strong financial performance was driven by underlying growth in passenger numbers, higher revenue per passenger, continued cost control and no recurrence of the volcanic ash and strike disruptions of 2010. We are focused on progressively improving passengers’ experience and the service we offer airlines at Heathrow.
“The new Terminal 2 is rapidly taking shape and work is continuing on a baggage transfer system which will move bags faster between Terminals 3 and 5. Our investment in these projects reflects our commitment to ensuring Heathrow’s future as Europe’s leading hub airport.”