Heathrow appoints first poet-in-residence in its 80 year history

Heathrow has enlisted its very first poet-in-residence, critically acclaimed writer David Larbi, to pen a special new poem in celebration of its 80th birthday.

Ahead of this Sunday’s anniversary of the airport’s first flight on May 31, the piece has been etched in giant letters into a field local to the airport – visible only to those in flight above.

The TikTok star and best-selling author was given access to the entire airport, spoke to over 30 colleagues across the operation, and listened to the many stories that make up Heathrow’s legacy.

Inspired by these encounters, the poem – titled ‘Gateway to the World’ – celebrates British aviation and the airport’s role over the past 80 years as a trusted global hub where possibility, ambition and human connection come together, and the dedication of the people and infrastructure behind every flight.

Images courtesy of Jake Mobbs/PA Media Assignments.

Larbi is said to capture the excitement and wonder of air travel, positioning Heathrow as more than an airport, but as a gateway that brings the world within reach – connecting millions of passengers safely and smoothly.

He enthused: “The best thing about poetry, for me, is bringing people joy and connection – something Heathrow has done in its own way for the past eight decades.

“I’m greatly honoured to be the airport’s first Poet-in-Residence, with an ode that captures Heathrow’s 80 year legacy, the excitement and wonder of air travel and all those who work daily to make Heathrow the incredible place it is.”

Heathrow’s first year of operation saw just 63,000 passengers pass through its doors. Today, the airport serves 230 destinations across more than 80 countries, welcoming 84.5 million passengers in 2025 alone – a scale that reflects the extraordinary growth of Heathrow over the past eight decades.

Looking ahead, Heathrow is focused on making journeys even smoother and more reliable for passengers, with expansion seen as key to unlocking new routes and airline choice, lower ticket fares and improved terminal spaces.

Airport CEO, Thomas Woldbye, comments: “For 80 years, Heathrow has been the place where journeys begin, where loved ones reunite, and where the UK meets the rest of the world. It has also been a pioneer in the travel industry, setting the standard for exceptional service.

“This year we’re celebrating not only our history, but the humanity that defines every journey through Heathrow – and our continued commitment to delivering an extraordinary airport fit for the future.”