"heathrow airport"

London Heathrow Airport this week revealed the handling of nearly 40 million passengers in the first six months of this year.

Such a figure came alongside their financial results for the first half of this year.

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

The Numbers from London Heathrow Airport…

London Heathrow handled 39.8m passengers in the first six months of this year.

Furthermore, June 30th was their busiest day.

June 30th saw the airport handle 268,000 passengers in one day across 1,300 flights.

Adjusted profit before tax stands at £178m.

This is an improvement compared to the same period last year, where they recorded a loss of £139m.

This is despite revenue falling 2.9% to nearly £1.7bn in 1H24 compared to £1.74bn in 1H23.

Woldbye: Record-Breaking Numbers…

Commenting on the strong numbers was London Heathrow Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye:

“Serving record-breaking passenger numbers while continuing to deliver excellent customer service is no easy feat and is testament to the dedication of my hardworking colleagues.”

“In addition to the nearly 40 million passengers that flew through Heathrow during the first 6 months, so did 765,000 tonnes of cargo, supporting world leading British industries to access global export markets.”

“We are working hard to deliver economic benefits for all of the UK, but this needs to be supported by joined up policy making that prioritises global competitiveness and sustainable growth.”

“We are encouraged by the new Government’s recognition of Heathrow’s role in powering growth across the country, and look forward to working with Ministers to ensure we are firing on all cylinders and retain our global standing.” 

Overall…

In conclusion, London Heathrow Airport has had a strong first half of 2024.

The airport is breaking records just as we begin to enter the Summer peak, where the momentum will continue.

Furthermore, all eyes will be on what the rest of the Summer season will look like for the airport in terms of numbers.

But for now, all eyes are on the end-of-year totals for the busiest airport in the UK.

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Nine Just Stop Oil supporters have been arrested outside London Heathrow Airport on Wednesday morning.

The protest action at the London airport is part of a concerted Europe-wide campaign by the activist group, which threatens to disrupt summer air travel.

Just Stop Oil is demanding that the UK government works with other countries to establish a fossil fuel treaty to end the extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030.

Arrests at London Heathrow Airport

At around 9am, seven Just Stop Oil supporters were arrested at two locations on the perimeter road outside Heathrow.

At around 10:50am, the Metropolitan Police confirmed a further two had been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to disrupt Heathrow.

European Disruptions

This comes after German supporters of Last Generation blocked air traffic at Cologne Bonn Airport, causing international delays.

Meanwhile, supporters of Folk Mot Fossilmakta (People against Fossil Power) cut through a chain-link fence and sat next to a runway stopping flights departing from Oslo Gardermoen airport.

Also this morning, supporters of Extinction Rebellion in Finland have blocked security gates at Helsinki Vantaa Airport.

Meanwhile in Spain, five supporters of Futuro Vegetal accessed the taxiway at Barcelona airport, however were intercepted before taking action.

In Switzerland, eleven supporters of Drop Fossil Subsidies blocked main roads around both Zurich and Geneva airports.

A Just Stop Oil spokesperson soke on the Heathrow arrests. “Continued burning of oil, gas and coal is jeopardising the stability on which our entire society depends.”

“Our political leaders must take action to protect our communities by working with other nations. They need to establish a legally binding treaty to stop the extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030.”

The activist group has committed to using all means necessary to cause airport disruptions across Europe during the summer season. They have indicated that they would avoid action on active and inactive runways.

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The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has released its decision on changes to the annual caps on charges that Heathrow Airport Limited can impose on airlines.

This decision will impact the airport’s pricing structure until the end of 2026, bringing good news for both airlines and passengers.

Key Changes in Heathrow Charges

The CAA’s latest decision introduces significant reductions in the previously estimated charges. Here are the main points:

• 2025 charges: Reduced from £25.24 to £23.73 per passenger
• 2026 charges: Decreased from £25.28 to £23.71 per passenger
• Overall reduction: Approximately 6% or £1.52 in 2025 and £1.57 in 2026

These changes aim to strike a balance between keeping prices reasonable for passengers and encouraging investment in airport improvements.

Heathrow Airport: A Hub of Activity

Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest international airports, plays a crucial role in the UK’s aviation sector.

As London’s primary airport, it serves millions of passengers annually and connects the UK to hundreds of destinations worldwide.

The reduced charges will likely have a positive impact on Heathrow’s operations:

• Increased competitiveness: Lower charges may attract more airlines and routes
• Passenger benefits: Potential for reduced ticket prices as airlines save on airport fees
• Investment balance: Encourages ongoing airport improvements while keeping costs in check

Factors Influencing the Decision

The CAA’s decision comes in response to the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) determination on appeals from Heathrow Airport Limited and airlines. The changes reflect several key factors:

• A smaller reduction in charges for over-recovery of revenue in 2020 and 2021
• Elimination of the premium on index-linked debt in calculating Heathrow’s cost of capital
• Adjustments to ensure charges accurately reflect pension deficit repair payments and business rates

Looking Ahead

This decision allows Heathrow to incorporate these changes into its 2025 charges consultation, expected later this summer.

The move aligns with the CMA’s Final Determination requirements and sets the stage for a more competitive and passenger-friendly airport environment.

As the aviation industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These reduced charges may further stimulate growth and improve the overall travel experience at one of the UK’s most important transportation hubs.

Impact on the Aviation Industry

The CAA’s decision is likely to have effects beyond Heathrow Airport itself. Other major airports in the UK and Europe may feel pressure to review their own charging structures to remain competitive.

Airlines operating at Heathrow may see improved profit margins, potentially leading to increased route offerings or frequency of flights.

This could, in turn, boost tourism and business travel to and from the UK, contributing to the country’s economic recovery post-pandemic.

Moreover, the reduced charges could help Heathrow maintain its position as a leading global hub in the face of increasing competition from airports in the Middle East and other European cities.

By keeping costs down, Heathrow can continue to attract both airlines and passengers, supporting its leading role in the UK’s transportation infrastructure.

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Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest international hubs, has shattered multiple records this June.

The airport witnessed an extraordinary influx of travelers, marking a significant milestone in its history.

Let’s delve into the details of this latest achievement and explore how Heathrow is managing this surge in passenger traffic.

Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers

June proved to be an exceptional month for London Heathrow Airport (LHR), with 7.4 million passengers passing through its terminals.

The airport reached its peak on June 30th, serving an astounding 268,000 passengers in a single day – the highest number ever recorded.

This wasn’t just a one-off occurrence. For the first time in Heathrow’s storied history, June saw back-to-back days with over 260,000 passengers.

Even more impressively, the airport managed to handle more than 260,000 travelers on five separate days throughout the month.

Staffing Up for Success

To meet the demands of this unprecedented growth, Heathrow has significantly expanded its workforce.

The airport now boasts over 90,000 Team Heathrow colleagues – more than ever before. This increase in staff includes specialist teams dedicated to ensuring a smooth and successful summer travel season.

One notable addition is the baggage resilience team, tasked with maintaining a robust baggage service.

Additionally, hundreds of ‘Heathrow helpers’ have been stationed throughout the terminals, ready to assist passengers at every step of their journey.

Focus on Punctuality

Recognizing the importance of on-time departures, Heathrow has launched the ‘on time together’ campaign.

This initiative brings together the airport, airlines, and ground handlers in a coordinated effort to maximize punctuality during what is expected to be Heathrow’s busiest summer ever.

Heathrow has focused on efficiency and the improvement of the overall passenger experience.

Newly appointed food and beverage ambassadors are also on hand to guide travellers. They provide assistance and directions to the hundreds of dining options available across the airport.

Recent additions to Heathrow’s culinary landscape include:

• The Vinery: A new English wine bar in Terminal 2
• Jones the Grocer: An all-day dining option, also in Terminal 2
• A refreshed Starbucks in Terminal 5, one of the busiest in the country

Recognition and Future Outlook

Heathrow’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The airport received high commendation in the recent Best Airport awards by ACI Europe, a testament to its commitment to excellence.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye expressed his gratitude to the staff, saying, “I want to thank all my colleagues who went the extra mile to make sure the 268,000 passengers travelling on the busiest day had a smooth, stress-free journey.”

Looking ahead, Woldbye remains optimistic: “We have started summer as we mean to go on.”

This statement suggests that Heathrow is prepared to maintain this high level of service throughout the busy summer season.

Heathrow Airport’s record-breaking June serves as a powerful indicator of the recovery and growth in international travel.

With its expanded workforce, collaborative approach to punctuality, and enhanced passenger amenities, Heathrow looks well-positioned to handle the challenges and opportunities that come with being one of the world’s premier aviation hubs.

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London’s Heathrow Airport continues to break passenger traffic records, solidifying its position as the UK’s premier travel hub.

The latest figures reveal a staggering 81.5 million passengers utilizing the airport in the twelve months leading up to May 2024.

This surpasses all previous records, marking a significant milestone for the airport. In an interesting side note, the airport also set quite a record for Toblerone sales for the month.

Read on for some rather unconventional monthly performance stats…

Heathrow May Performance: Record Breaking

May itself witnessed a record-breaking month, with passenger numbers exceeding 7.2 million for the first time ever.

This trend is expected to continue throughout the upcoming summer season. Forward projections estimate that a further 30 million passengers to pass through Heathrow across the peak travel season.

Passengers can travel with confidence across summer, knowing that airport staff successfully handled these recent surges in passenger volume.

This includes various improvements within the terminals, such as the recent opening of the UK’s first Jones the Grocer branch in Terminal 2.

This new addition offers passengers a delightful selection of freshly prepared meals and artisan products.

T2: Queen’s Terminal 10^th Annversary

Terminal 2, also known as The Queen’s Terminal, celebrates its 10th anniversary this summer. Throughout its ten years of operation, it has seen an impressive 148 million passengers travel through its gates.

The Terminal has facilitated travel to over 30 destinations on more than a million flights during that time

New research conducted in honor of the anniversary revealed some interesting passenger habits. Apparently, many travelers indulge in little luxuries at the start of their journeys, including breakfast pastries, impulse purchases, or even a pre-flight drink.

40,000 Toblerone Bars!

As an interesting aside, it seems the record passenger numbers weren’t the only highpoint for Heathrow in May.

In fact, May alone saw passengers indulge their sweet tooth with a staggering 40,000 Toblerone bars – that’s roughly one per minute and enough chocolate to stretch the entire length of the airport’s northern runway!

Looking beyond summer, Heathrow is already preparing for the winter season. Travelers seeking winter escapes will be excited to learn about British Airways’ new route.

This will operate from Heathrow to Tromsø, Norway, a perfect destination for aurora borealis enthusiasts and arctic adventurers.

Additionally, SAS airlines has confirmed a new route connecting Heathrow to Sälen in Sweden.

Heathrow CEO, Thomas Woldbye, expressed his pride in the team’s achievements: “We have a winning team at Heathrow that has demonstrably moved past the challenges of Covid-19.”

“Through their extraordinary efforts, we are now facilitating record numbers of journeys, seamlessly connecting people with the world.”

“Supporting 81 million journeys doesn’t just create cherished holiday memories for families, but more importantly, strengthens the vital trade and business links that a hub like Heathrow fosters for the UK’s economy.”

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Heathrow Airport is experiencing a significant surge in passenger traffic, with April alone welcoming a staggering 6.7 million travelers.

This brings the year-to-date total to an impressive 25.2 million, putting the airport firmly on track for a record-breaking year in 2024.

Heathrow April Performance

Passenger numbers are steadily climbing, with a daily average of 224,000 recorded in April. Notably, Friday, April 19th, marked the busiest day at the airfield since October 2019, with a record-breaking 1,337 flights taking off and landing.

East Asia and the Middle East are proving to be particularly popular destinations, with double-digit percentage increases in passenger numbers compared to previous periods.

Notably, Delhi and Mumbai have skyrocketed in popularity, claiming the 6th and 8th most popular spots this year. New York, Dubai, and Doha continue to reign supreme as the top three preferred destinations.

Adding to the celebratory mood, Terminal 2 recently reached a significant milestone. On Saturday, April 27th, IcelandAir flight FI454 from Keflavik International Airport touched down at 7:49 pm, marking the terminal’s one-millionth arrival.

This achievement comes as both passengers and staff gear up to celebrate Terminal 2’s 10th anniversary this summer.

4th Busiest Global Airport

In April, the Airport Council International (ACI) recognized Heathrow as the 4th busiest airport globally for 2023. This positive momentum positions the airport to surpass its previous passenger record in 2024.

However, despite the optimistic outlook, Heathrow acknowledges potential roadblocks. Some current government policies are being viewed as hindrances to the UK’s global aviation competitiveness.

This notably includes the introduction of seemingly unnecessary visas for transiting passengers and the absence of tax-free shopping options.

Additionally, the recently proposed hike in business rates further underscores the need for a more supportive approach from the government.

Heathrow CEO Comments

Heathrow CEO, Thomas Woldbye, expressed his gratitude to the dedicated team behind this remarkable achievement. “The exceptional performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone at Heathrow,” he stated.

“As we navigate this period of growth, our primary focus remains on ensuring a smooth and reliable travel experience for all our passengers, while simultaneously preparing for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.”

“To truly unlock our full potential and contribute significantly to the UK’s economic growth, we urge the government to implement policies that strengthen UK aviation’s global competitiveness, ultimately enhancing the UK’s overall standing in the international market.”

Heathrow Airport: A Key Global Hub

London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is a giant amongst global travel hubs. Boasting a rich history dating back to the 1930s, Heathrow has grown into the UK’s primary airport and a critical link for international air travel.

Millions of passengers touch down and depart from its five bustling terminals each year, solidifying its position as a major economic driver for the United Kingdom.

Heathrow’s reputation as a global leader is built on several key strengths:

• Unmatched Connectivity: Heathrow offers an extensive network of destinations, ranking as the world’s #1 for most international connections in 2023. This vast network makes it a one-stop shop for travelers seeking connections to virtually any corner of the globe.
• Passenger Volume: Consistently ranking amongst the busiest airports worldwide, Heathrow serves a massive volume of passengers. This high traffic makes it a vital link for both business and leisure travel.
• Cargo Hub: Beyond passengers, Heathrow is also a major cargo hub, facilitating the movement of vital goods and contributing significantly to the UK’s trade activity.

Conclusion

Heathrow’s ongoing development plans, including potential expansion, aim to solidify its position as a global leader in the ever-evolving aviation industry.

However, the airport also faces challenges, such as navigating government regulations and ensuring sustainable growth. Despite these hurdles, Heathrow remains a powerhouse in the world of air travel.

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Operations at London Heathrow are expected to be disrupted next month due to strike action on the way.

It is expected to involve a lot of people who work at the airport and is expected to go on for around six days.

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

Strike Action at London Heathrow Airport…

Unite is the union that will be conducting this strike action at London Heathrow.

It is understood that nearly 800 people will participate in the action, with this happening between the following times:

• 00:01 on May 7 to 23:59 on May 13.

In total, the strike action will last around six days, which is due to provide significant disruption to services at the airport.

In a statement, the union said the following regarding why the strike action is being taken:

“Heathrow Airport Ltd (HAL) has ignored existing consultation procedures and has announced a fait accompli that workers in passenger services (who assist travellers to catch connecting flights), trolley operations, and campus security (the security guards who are responsible for all workers at Heathrow and vehicles being checked before entering Heathrow), will be outsourced by 1 June.”

Unite: Actions by the Airport Are Deplorable…

Adding to the statement was Unite’s General Secretary Sharon Graham:

“Heathrow Airport’s actions are deplorable, it is raking in massive profits for the bosses while trying to squeeze every last penny out of its workforce.

“Unite is fully focussed on defending its members jobs, pay and conditions and our members at Heathrow will receive the union’s unrelenting support during this dispute.”

It is understood that this outsourcing will save Heathrow Airport around £40m per year.

The union argues that the airport has made enough profit, amounting to £701m back in 2023.

Overall…

Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see whether this strike action at London Heathrow Airport will go ahead.

There is still an opportunity for the airfield to sit down with the union and negotiate.

Furthermore, if they decide to press ahead, then this strike action will no doubt disrupt operations significantly at the airport.

All eyes will be on whether the airport will give in or whether they will go ahead with the outsourcing.

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Heathrow Airport witnessed a firm resurgence in 2023, marking a significant milestone in its history. The London airport has seen a return to profit, with the first adjusted profit in four years of £38 million adjusted profit before tax.

Let’s delve into the key highlights that defined Heathrow’s exceptional performance during the year.

Passenger Numbers: A Strong Recovery

The year 2023 saw Heathrow’s passenger numbers rebounding substantially, reaching a commendable 79.2 million.

This resurgence fortified the major London hubs recovery, and also neatly positioned it as a frontrunner among European airports.

Notably, Heathrow clinched the esteemed title of the “Best airport in Europe,” putting the icing on the cake of a solid rebound year.

Financial Performance: Turning the Tide

In a notable turnaround, Heathrow recorded a small adjusted profit for the first time since 2019. Bolstered by a robust performance in Q4, the airport reported £38 million in adjusted profit before tax.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Heathrow’s balance sheet remained robust, with gearing levels below pre-pandemic standards and substantial liquidity amounting to £3.8 billion.

However, the reduction in airport charges by 20% in real terms, as per the CAA’s H7 settlement, presented a significant financial hurdle.

This necessitated strategic efficiencies and investment trade-offs to bridge a £400 million gap over the next three years.

Investments for Improvement

Heathrow embarked on a series of strategic investments aimed at enhancing service quality and operational resilience.

Noteworthy initiatives included the upgrading of 146 security lanes as part of a £1 billion investment in next-generation security equipment.

Additionally, the appointment of a lead contractor for the replacement of the Terminal T2 baggage system underscored Heathrow’s commitment to elevating the passenger experience.

Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives

Sustainability remained firmly entrenched in Heathrow’s operational ethos, with significant strides made towards fulfilling its Heathrow 2.0 commitments.

The launch of the Giving Back Programme exemplified Heathrow’s dedication to community engagement, with plans to impact nearly 100,000 local residents positively.

Moreover, Heathrow made significant strides in promoting sustainable aviation by utilizing record amounts of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in 2023, with plans to incentivize the use of up to 155,000 tonnes of SAF in 2024.

CEO Heathrow: Advocating for Change

Heathrow’s CEO, Thomas Woldbye, emphasized the critical role of government support in navigating the challenges ahead.

Urging ministers to prioritize the establishment of a domestic Sustainable Aviation Fuel industry, Woldbye underscored the significance of levelling the playing field with European counterparts to bolster international tourism spend.

The upcoming Spring Budget presents a crucial opportunity for policymakers to effect meaningful change and bolster the UK’s aviation sector’s competitiveness.

Charting the Course Ahead

Reflecting on Heathrow’s achievements in 2023, CEO Thomas Woldbye hailed it as a year of progress amidst adversity, saying:

“2023 was a good year for Heathrow from a challenging start to a great finish – We delivered much improved service for our customers, and managed to turn a small profit after three consecutive years of losses.”

While acknowledging the imperative of delivering improved service to a growing passenger base in 2024, Woldbye highlighted the formidable task of maintaining profitability amidst reduced airport charges.

He emphasized the need for strategic efficiency measures and prudent investment decisions to surmount the financial challenges posed by regulatory mandates.

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Heathrow Airport, London’s main international hub, has kicked off 2024 with a bang, welcoming over 6 million travelers in January alone.

 Among that number, a staggering 196,661 passengers embarked on their journeys on Blue Monday, January 15th, seeking a jet-setting start to their year.

But what exactly is driving this surge in travel, and what does it mean for both passengers and the aviation industry at large?

Heathrow’s Stellar Performance Continues

For the third consecutive year, Heathrow has clinched the title of the best UK airport at the esteemed Travel Weekly Globe Travel Awards.

Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing global pandemic, Heathrow has continued to strive for high standards of customer service and operational efficiency.

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Cargo Movement at Heathrow

In addition to facilitating passenger travel, Heathrow serves as a critical hub for cargo movement, with 122,255 tonnes of goods passing through the airport in January alone.

The recently unveiled ‘Exporting Excellence’ report sheds light on the contributions of exporters from various nations and regions across the UK.

Heathrow’s strategic location and extensive network connect UK exporters to key markets worldwide, ranging from Dallas to Guangzhou.

This connectivity is instrumental in driving economic growth and fostering international trade relations.

Challenges on the Horizon: Navigating Tax Policies

Despite its success in facilitating trade and travel, Heathrow faces challenges on the domestic front.

The imposition of a tourist tax and other restrictive policies have deterred international shoppers, posing a threat to the UK’s reputation as a competitive destination for both leisure and business.

In response, Heathrow has joined forces with prominent business organizations, including the British Chambers of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses, to advocate for the implementation of internationally competitive tax-free shopping incentives.

This collaborative effort seeks to support developing economic growth and hopefully fostering a conducive environment for commerce.

Comments from CEO Thomas Woldbye

As Heathrow gears up for the first passenger peak of the year, CEO Thomas Woldbye expresses confidence in the airport’s ability to meet the evolving needs of travelers.

With February half term fast approaching, Heathrow stands ready to welcome passengers seeking adventure, relaxation, or reunions with loved ones.

In Woldbye’s words, whether you’re jetting off to hit the slopes, bask in the sun, or simply reconnect with family and friends, Heathrow has you covered.

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November marked a bustling period at London Heathrow Airport, with a remarkable 6.1 million passengers embarking on journeys, bidding adieu to frosty mornings and embracing winter sun.

The terminal buzzed with reuniting friends and families for the holiday festivities, creating an busy atmosphere for the month, tinged with family warmth and togetherness.

Heathrow Airport November Highlights

Peak Traffic to North America

The Friday before Thanksgiving witnessed a surge in travel, with over 50,000 passengers crossing the Atlantic from Heathrow.

Families seized the opportunity to be together for this special occasion, creating a lively pre-holiday atmosphere at the airport.

Diwali Delights to India

Simultaneously, departures to India reached new heights. The 15 daily flights from Heathrow to India became a conduit for passengers eager to celebrate Diwali with their loved ones, adding a touch of festivity to the departure gates.

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A Milestone for Sustainability

Amidst the routine 220 daily flights between the USA and Heathrow, a landmark flight achievement unfolded on November 28.

The first-ever transatlantic flight powered by 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) took off to New York, marking a pivotal achievement for the UK aviation industry’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2050.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye emphasizes the importance of aviation in fostering quality time with friends and family during holidays.

He stresses the need for sustainable practices, echoing the success of the historic 100% SAF transatlantic flight and calling for collaboration between industry and government to scale up SAF production.

Millionaire’s Club: Popular Destinations

Toronto, Singapore, and Chicago:

Joining the elite ‘millionaire’ club in November, these destinations recorded over a million passengers each. This reflects the enduring popularity of these routes and the global connectivity facilitated by Heathrow.

Race to the Million Mark

Lisbon, San Francisco, and Edinburgh are poised to achieve this prestigious milestone soon. Heathrow anticipates over 20 routes achieving this feat by the end of the year, underlining its position as a global aviation hub.

December’s Festive Forecast

With a strong December ahead, departure numbers are expected to peak in the week leading up to Christmas Day.

The terminals, adorned with 47 Christmas trees, echo the festive spirit, with local choirs serenading and a ballet performance welcoming arriving passengers.

Heathrow’s top tip for a smooth Christmas getaway is to pack Christmas luggage with care. To avoid any delays at security, remember to pack liquids, creams, gels, pastes and aerosols in seperate transparent, resealable bags that can easily be removed from hand baggage.

And remember, no Christmas crackers! Whilst travellers are keen to get going on their festive getaways, Heathrow recommends that passengers arrive at the airport no more than two hours before short-haul flights and three hours before long-haul flights. 

Tonia Fielding, Director of Services at Heathrow said: “At Heathrow we’re always looking for fun and unique ways to ensure our passengers have the best experience possible before jetting off on their holidays.”

“The festive season is all about reuniting with family and loved ones. Here at Heathrow we are proud to be at the heart of making that happen, which is why we’re pulling out all the stops in our biggest Christmas ever.”  

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