Heathrow Airport Reports Record-Breaking 83.9 Million Passengers in 2024

Saturday, March 1, 2025

London’s Heathrow Airport has set a new record, handling 83.9 million passengers in 2024, a 6% year-on-year increase, reinforcing its position as the world’s best-connected airport. With enhanced passenger services, and sustainability investments, Heathrow continues to drive the UK’s aviation sector forward.

2024 Heathrow Performance Highlights

According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Heathrow’s 2024 performance showcases strong passenger demand, improved operational efficiency, and financial stability.

Passenger & Cargo Growth

• Passenger Traffic: 83.9 million passengers (+6% YoY)
• Cargo Performance: 10% increase, supporting UK trade and exports

With increasing connectivity and demand, Heathrow remains the UK’s leading international gateway, facilitating global travel and economic expansion.

Service Improvements & Industry Recognition

Heathrow’s commitment to customer service excellence was reflected in several key operational enhancements:

• Stable security wait times, ensuring faster passenger processing.
• Improved baggage handling to enhance traveler experience.
• Increased on-time departures, reducing delays.

These efforts earned Heathrow the title of the UK’s Best Airport by Condé Nast Traveller and Travel Weekly, with its retail and VIP services recognized as “Best in Class”.

Financial Performance & Dividend Payout

Despite a 4% decline in revenue due to lower airport charges set by the CAA, Heathrow maintained strong financial health:

• Revenue: £3.6 billion
• EBITDA: £2.0 billion (adjusted)
• Liquidity: £3.4 billion, ensuring financial resilience
• Dividend: First payout in five years—£250 million to shareholders

Sustainability & Future Infrastructure Investments

Heathrow has taken major strides in sustainability, aligning with the UK Department for Transport’s Net Zero Aviation Strategy:

• Launched the Nature Positive Plan, reinforcing biodiversity efforts.
• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) usage increased by 3%, surpassing UK government mandates.

With aviation demand rising, Heathrow has unveiled £1 billion in planned infrastructure investments, including:

• Terminal upgrades to enhance passenger experience.
• Airfield improvements to streamline operations.
• A third runway proposal, to be submitted to the UK Government in Summer 2025, aiming to increase capacity and strengthen Heathrow’s global hub status.

CEO’s Vision: Heathrow as the UK’s Economic Gateway

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye emphasized the airport’s critical role in the UK’s economic and aviation growth:

“Heathrow is the UK’s gateway to global business and travel. Our commitment to modernization, sustainability, and infrastructure development ensures we meet future passenger demand while supporting economic expansion.”

As Heathrow continues to drive record-breaking passenger numbers and major infrastructure upgrades, it remains a cornerstone of the UK’s aviation strategy.