Spike in transfer traffic at Heathrow due to conflict in Middle East

London’s Heathrow Airport experienced a 10% spike in transfer passengers last month as airlines and passengers adapted to airspace closures across the Middle East.

However, while it has temporarily absorbed demand from elsewhere, the UK hub points out that its growth remains slower than man EU competitors as its runway slots are full.

The airport welcomed a total of 6.6 million passengers in March, a healthy 6.9% increase on the corresponding month a year ago.

It adds that the outlook for the next few months is uncertain, due to the ongoing conflict, although it notes that the knock-on impacts to global supply chains, including fuel, have not affected airport operations.

Heathrow CEO, Thomas Woldbye, said: “We’re doing everything we can to support airlines and passengers as travel trends shift during the Middle East crisis.

“While Heathrow’s long-haul network absorbed demand in March, the outlook for the next few months remains uncertain. I’m proud of what colleagues have achieved to quickly adapt and continue giving passengers a great service during difficult times.”