Heathrow Airport Achieves Record Passenger Numbers Amid Asia-Pacific Growth
London Heathrow Airport reported handling a record 40 million passengers in the first half of 2026, driven by a 7.9% increase in Asia-Pacific traffic. Despite geopolitical challenges, the airport saw a modest revenue increase of 0.3% to £1.73 billion, although operating costs rose by 6.4%. The airport is advancing plans for a third runway, which could support 60,000 jobs and generate £40 billion in economic growth. Capacity between Heathrow and the Middle East fell due to regional geopolitical crises, while Asia-Pacific capacity increased as airlines added more nonstop flights.