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Heathrow sees record footfall in October

Heathrow Airport reported a record 6.56 million footfall in October, up 3.9% on the same period last year, making it the busiest October to date.

The west London airport saw seats per aircraft increase 2.1% to 209.3 while load factors increased 2.3% to 77.9% and passengers per aircraft rose 4.5% to 162.9.

Within emerging markets, passenger volumes were particularly strong to Mexico which was up 28%, China up 18% and to the Middle East which was up 7% as carriers continue to benefit from new aircraft including A380s.

Heathrow is currently campaigning for a third runway expansion, which was given the formal nod of approval by the Airports Commission in July.

However, a conflict has arisen between Heathrow’s chief executive, John Holland-Kaye, and the commission. Last week, Holland-Kaye repeatedly refused to commit the airport to one of the commission’s key conditions, that there should be no flights before 6.00 a.m.

Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: “Another record month for passenger growth, particularly to emerging economies, shows the urgent need for expansion at Heathrow. We can create the world’s best connected and most sustainable hub airport, ensuring Britain remains at the heart of the global economy for future generations. Let’s build it.”

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