Heathrow sees huge rise in passenger numbers and record satisfaction levels

Heathrow has provided an update on its passenger numbers and “satisfaction levels” as the airport continues its strong recovery from the pandemic.

The airport has announced that more than 5.4 million passengers travelled through Heathrow in January, the busiest start of the year since 2020.

Following detailed surveying of passengers, Heathrow also pointed out that overall passenger satisfaction is now at or above pre-pandemic levels. In January, 98% of passengers waited less than 10 minutes for security.

Border Force are trialling the use of eGates for children aged 10 and 11 in Terminal 5 over half term, and the airport says it is “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”.

British Airways and Virgin recently announced restarting ticket sales to China, reopening a key market for British exports once more. Following the pandemic, the airport has worked with airline partners to rebuild the world-class connectivity Heathrow offers to passengers.

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.

Terminal passengers were 5.482 million in January 2023, up 111% on January 2022.