UK. London Heathrow Airport served over 6.5 million passengers in November, a rise of +6.1% year-on-year and a record for the month. The highest growth rates by region were Latin America (+20.9%), Asia Pacific (+11.6%) and Middle East (+8.8%).
Singapore, Edinburgh, Lisbon, Abu Dhabi, Chicago, Zurich, Mumbai and Paris Charles de Gaulle all joined what Heathrow calls the ‘Millionaire Club’ in November with over a million passengers travelling on those routes so far in 2024. Some 25 routes should reach 1 million passengers this year, up from 24 last year, the airport company predicted.
In the first 11 months the UK’s largest airport served 76.8 million passengers, up +6% year-on-year.
The airport company said it is expecting its busiest December ever, with projected Christmas Day traffic on 25 December set to leap +21% compared to last year.
Heathrow has geared up for the festive season with a range of activities, including seasonal crafts with Christmas fairies, the opportunity to meet Father Christmas and his elves, and photo opportunities with Bjorn the polar bear. Among the decorations across the terminals are 58 Christmas trees.
As reported, Heathrow has introduced arcade-style claw machines for an added element of gamification. Travellers also have the chance to win instant prizes from brands such Charlotte Tilbury, Hamley’s and Bollinger.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “This year has been all about providing high levels of service for record amounts of passengers at Heathrow, and November was no different. As we embrace the festive season, our focus remains on ensuring smooth, joyful journeys – whether it is helping passengers get away for Christmas to reunite with their loved ones, or making sure cargo reaches its destination on time.
“Make sure to look out for our exciting seasonal surprises throughout the terminals, as we aim to make this holiday season magical for those travelling through Heathrow.” ✈
