Business and traffic commentary Jan 2023

Heathrow getting back to its best

§ Over 5.4 million passengers travelled through Heathrow in January, the busiest start of the year since 2020

§ Overall passenger satisfaction is now at or above pre-pandemic levels. In January, 98% of passengers waited less than 10 minutes for security and we are delighted to once again be named Travel Weekly's Best UK Airport

§ Border Force successfully managed recent strike action and are trialling the use of eGates for children aged 10 and 11 in Terminal 5 over half term. We are fully supportive of Border Force's aspirations to expand the use of eGates to more families and visa holders, assisting with smooth and seamless journeys

§ We welcome the announcement by British Airways and Virgin Atlantic on restarting ticket sales to China, reopening a key market for British exports once more. Following the pandemic, we have worked tirelessly alongside our airline partners to rebuild the world-class connectivity Heathrow offers to our passengers and cargo

§ The half term getaway has been going very well. Like all peak periods, our management teams are out in the terminals supporting our operational colleagues and helping passengers get on their way

Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said:

"Heathrow is back to its best, with passenger satisfaction scores meeting or exceeding 2019 levels. We are giving a warm welcome to families over the half term getaway by delivering excellent service and bringing back the magic of travel."