Consecutive record-breaking weeks and strong operational performance characterised the summer months. From June to September, 30.7 million passengers passed through Heathrow, bringing the total for the first nine months to 63.1 million. Continuing to back British SAF through a revenue certainty mechanism and reforming the regulatory system to promote investment while keeping passengers at the heart of decisions will help deliver on the Government’s ‘economic growth’ and ‘clean energy superpower’ missions.
While Olympic travellers were taking advantage of European city breaks, iconic music stars passing through the UK caused a late summer spike in departures. Heathrow experienced both the busiest departures and busiest arrivals day in the airport’s history on 24 July and 2 September, respectively. To reflect the sustained record-breaking passenger numbers, the 2024 forecast has been increased to 83.8 million.
In the first nine months, we made a £350 million adjusted profit before tax. Heathrow’s continually growing passenger base, strong credit ratings and robust liquidity put us on a sure-footing for the future and deliver confidence to investors. We expect to invest over £1 billion into the UK’s hub this year alone and we are seeing high passenger satisfaction scores. No dividends are currently forecast for 2024, although it is probable subject to financial performance.
Recognising the platform that trading through the most connected airport in the world provides to British SMEs, Heathrow’s World of Opportunity competition has returned. SMEs across every nation and region of the UK are being offered the opportunity to boost their exporting potential. Grants to fund trade missions and expand international customer base are up for grabs.
This summer has tested our colleagues, infrastructure and airlines to cooperate harder than ever before, with record numbers of passengers travelling through the busiest two runway airport in the world. We have risen to this challenge, delivering excellent service with over 91% of passengers waiting at security for less than 5 minutes. Looking forwards, the Autumn Budget is a prime opportunity to set the aviation industry up for long term success. Backing British SAF through a revenue certainty mechanism and committing to joined up policy making that makes sense for aviation will supercharge Heathrow’s potential to deliver growth and investment for the whole of the country.” refered Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye.
