Heathrow airport reported a 1.8% decline in passenger numbers in June, with 7.2 million travellers passing through its four terminals, compared to 7.4 million during the same month last year. The west London airport attributed the drop to the “continued suppression of Middle East traffic” resulting from the regional conflict.
North America Traffic Rises Slightly
Despite the overall decline, two million passengers travelled from Heathrow to North America in June, a 1.2% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The rise is partly linked to the World Cup being hosted in the region.
CEO Highlights Demand for Global Connectivity
Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye noted a strong end to the first half of 2026, despite Middle East challenges. “Sustained growth in North American and Asia-Pacific coupled with climbing cargo volumes demonstrates the strength of demand for global connectivity,” he said.
Call for Third Runway Expansion
Woldbye urged the government to support Heathrow’s privately funded expansion, describing a third runway as an “open goal” for economic growth. “It’s time to get this vital project off the bench and onto the pitch,” he added, emphasising potential benefits for businesses, exporters, and communities across the UK.
