Passenger numbers may be affected by Iran war, Heathrow warns
Passenger numbers for the rest of the year are likely to be affected by the Iran war, Heathrow airport has warned. As many as 18.9 million people travelled via its four terminals over the first three months of 2026. This represents a year-on-year increase of 3.7% as the airport “temporarily absorbed demand from elsewhere.”
“Passenger numbers for the rest of the year are likely to be impacted whilst there is significant uncertainty in the Middle East,” the airport said in a trading update quoted by the BBC.
Airspace closures in the Middle East following the start of the war on 28th February has had significant impacts on global air travel. As many as half a million passengers typically travel through various airports in the region every day, including Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. These airports often serve as connecting hubs, connecting Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Some airspace in the Middle East has since reopened. But people have largely avoided flying through the area due to the ongoing war.
During the first quarter of this year, Heathrow recorded a 2.3% increase in revenue from the previous year, up to £844 million. This came as a result of rises in passenger numbers, sales of food and drinks, and an increase of premium services. Its operating costs however were 6.5% higher as a result of wages, national insurance payments, investments in IT, and passenger support, according to the BBC.
The airport was reportedly “full” according to its chief financial officer Sally Ding, and is ready to continue with its plans for a third runway “with the right regulatory framework and Government policy in place.”
Stay tuned to EyeOnLondon for the latest news and expert opinions.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
