Heathrow hails ‘bumper’ February passenger numbers

Heathrow hailed a “bumper” half-term combined with Chinese new year for pushing up February passenger numbers.

 

Total throughput at the capacity-squeezed London hub rose by almost 2% year on year or 110,000 passengers to 5.8 million.

 

The increase to give the airport’s busiest February was driven by airlines operating larger and fuller aircraft.

 

However, with Heathrow operating close to capacity, latest data from airports trade body ACI Europe shows passenger growth is now trailing the European average of 4.6%.

 

Heathrow’s punctuality outperformed all European hubs and London airports, despite the rising level of passengers.  

 

This enabled Heathrow to further cement its position as Europe’s most reliable hub and security flows remained consistently fast, with 98% of passengers through in under five minutes.

 

Meanwhile, Heathrow is “closely monitoring” the Middle East conflict.

 

“We’re working with our airlines and airport partners to facilitate additional flight requests and support passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted by the conflict,” the airport noted.

 

Addressing the airport’s third runway plans, Heathrow said: “The airport’s expansion plans continue to dominate the conversation.

 

“The country’s hub and the world’s most connected airport is full, with Istanbul now Europe’s busiest airport.

 

“This is limiting choice for passengers and stifling competition.

 

“Expansion will add new routes, introduce more choice and in turn lower fares.

 

“Our plans will ensure the country gets the infrastructure it needs to stay competitive and will deliver all-important economic growth.”

 

Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye said: “Every day during February Heathrow continued to provide excellent service whilst passenger numbers climbed to new heights. 

 

“Our passengers are at the heart of everything we do and we’re focused on supporting those affected by the unfolding events in the Middle East.

 

“We continue to monitor the situation closely and stand ready to minimise the operational impact and assist our airline partners as they navigate this challenging operational environment.”