New connections spur growth at Heathrow
Larger and quieter aircraft continued to be a driver for growth in passenger volumes, whilst fast-growing emerging markets continued to contribute increased passenger volumes, including to China which was up 12%, Mexico 6%, India 4% and the Middle East which was up 9% as carriers continued to benefit from new aircraft including A380s.
Emirates added a sixth daily Dubai service in March following a slot transfer and from July will operate the service with its A380.
East Asia continues to perform strongly, with both passenger and cargo volumes up 6% in part following the launch of Vietnam Airlines’ services and increase in frequency to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City after switching from Gatwick last year and British Airways’ new flights to Kuala Lumpur
After six years of seeking slots at Heathrow, Garuda Indonesia began the UK’s first direct services to Jakarta in March. The new services offer improved and more convenient access for British SMEs to Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
Recent improvements at Heathrow include launching of a new WebPortal aimed at consolidating freight loads and decreasing the amount of trucks and emissions on roads around the airport. As the UK’s largest port, Heathrow is aiming to encourage freight companies to operate more sustainably
Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: “It’s been a record March for Heathrow and I’m delighted that we’ve added the UK’s first direct connection to Indonesia. As Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Garuda Indonesia’s new route will be a significant boon for British SMEs looking for new export opportunities."
He added: "There is a queue of over 30 airlines waiting for slots from Heathrow"