Heathrow Airport’s October passenger count rose 0.4% to 6.32m with growth driven by ‘larger, fuller, quieter aircraft at Heathrow’.

Aircraft load factors increased by 0.1% to 76.1%, while passenger per aircraft 0.9% to an average of 156. The airport reports that passenger numbers remained strong within emerging markets, increasing by 9.6% to China, 7.2% to Brazil, 6.6% to Mexico and 4.5% to India

The airport also couldn’t resist pointing out that its transfer passenger volumes continue to make ‘such long-haul routes viable’, although with volumes increased by a modest 1.1%. Cargo, that barometer of trading was also healthy with an 8.3% increase overall. The sector saw rises of 42.7% to Mexico, 35.8% to Brazil, 21.0% to Russia, 13.6% to China, 13.4% to India and 11.7% to Turkey

Meanwhile, an open letter to the Airports Commission from 24 Chambers of Commerce representing over 40,000 businesses from across the UK has apparently underlined growing business support for Heathrow’s expansion.

 

 

 

 

 

THE FIGHT FOR EXPANSION CONTINUES
Heathrow Airport management said today that the Chambers outlined how ‘only a stronger hub at Heathrow can support their regions and connect local businesses to global markets”.

Heathrow also points to the successful completion of the transition of 26 airlines into Terminal 2: The Queen’s Terminal, ‘with over 40,000 passengers now enjoying the world class facility every day’.

Commenting, Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: “As the Airports Commission prepares to launch its national consultation, more and more people across the UK are recognising that Heathrow plays a critical role in the success of the British economy.

“Business is telling the Commission that Heathrow is geographically in the best location, is the only airport that can deliver flights to the world’s growth markets and the only option that has exports front and centre of its expansion plans.

“With 26% of all British exports going through Heathrow, compared to less than 2% at Gatwick, businesses up and down the country are making it clear that Heathrow is the only option that can help Britain win the race for growth.”