London Heathrow experienced an unprecedented rise in air travel demand in 2024. The airport welcomed more passengers than ever before, marking a significant milestone in its history. This surge highlights the strong recovery of global travel after the pandemic’s impact. Additionally, the airport’s financial performance reflected a mix of gains and challenges, setting the stage for future expansion.
Before the pandemic, London Heathrow consistently handled over 80 million passengers annually. In 2019, it recorded 80.9 million travelers, but numbers dropped sharply in 2020 and 2021 due to travel restrictions. However, the demand rebounded in 2022 and continued to grow. By 2024, the airport set a new record with 83.9 million passengers, surpassing previous highs. The increase in air traffic also boosted cargo operations, supporting British trade.
Despite the record passenger volume, Heathrow’s revenue dipped slightly due to lower airport charges. The facility generated £3.6 billion in revenue and £2 billion in adjusted EBITDA, both reflecting small declines from 2023. However, pre-tax profit surged by more than 30%, reaching £917 million. This growth led Heathrow to issue a £250 million dividend, the first in five years.
Looking ahead, London Heathrow expects another busy year in 2025. Over 484,000 flights are scheduled, offering more than 106 million seats. The airport is also making long-term investments to modernize its infrastructure. Over the next decade, it plans the largest private investment in the UK transport sector. These upgrades will improve passenger experience and increase capacity.
As one of the world’s busiest airports, London Heathrow continues to play a key role in global travel. With rising demand and ambitious expansion plans, it aims to remain a leading international hub.
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