Member Article

Another record-breaking month strengthens Heathrow’s cause for expansion

July was a month of ‘personal bests’ according to Heathrow’s latest trading statement, as the airport reported passenger numbers of 7.29 million, up 4.7% on the previous year.

For the first time ever, the West London airport served over a quarter of a million passenger on three separate days.

In addition, Heathrow saw seats per aircraft increase by 2.3% to 209.6 while passengers per aircraft rose 4.1% to 175.6 and load factors increased 1.8% to 83.8%

Within emerging markets, the airport’s passenger volumes were particularly strong to Mexico which was up 29.5%, China up 13.7% and Brazil up 1.6%. Middle East traffic was also up 13.3% as carriers added new A380s to these segments

The airport calls itself “Britain’s link with global markets” as it hosts over 70% of the UK’s long-haul flights. In the statement, it said: “The airport has seen significant increasing demand for services to fast-growing markets like Mexico and China, but without additional capacity this growth cannot continue.

“The Airports Commission found in its recent recommendation that new opportunities for trade are dependent on improved global connectivity and an expanded Heathrow will provide this.”

In July the Airports Commission, led by Sir Howard Davies, gave a formal nod of approval for Heathrow’s plans to build a third runway. However, the proposals are yet to be approved by a committee led by David Cameron and other cabinet members.

Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: “I agree with the Prime Minister’s comments during the recent trade mission to South East Asia that Britain should be trading more with the rest of the world.

“As the UK’s largest port, Heathrow is the beating heart of Britain’s trading network. Our best exports, whether Scottish salmon or life-saving pharmaceuticals, all pass through Heathrow on their way to markets across the globe.

“With expansion, we can add connections to new markets, opening up the lucrative trade routes that will secure British prosperity over the coming decades.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .