London Heathrow passengers' traffic dipped by 5% in April 2026

Passenger traffic at Heathrow Airport dipped in April, but the UK hub says strong transfer demand and resilient global connectivity continue to underpin long-term growth despite disruption linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Heathrow handled 6.7 million passengers in April, down 5% year over year, reflecting the impact of geopolitical tensions on some international markets and short-term shifts in traveller confidence and booking patterns.

However, the airport said underlying demand for air travel remains strong, particularly among transfer passengers. Transit traffic increased by 10% compared with April 2025 as travellers rerouted through Heathrow to take advantage of the airport’s extensive direct links to destinations across Asia and Oceania.

The airport highlighted recent operational data from the UK Civil Aviation Authority showing Heathrow as London’s most punctual airport and outperforming several competing European hub airports. Heathrow said operational improvements and preparation work by airport staff are laying the groundwork for a busy summer travel season.

Heathrow is also working with the UK government and airline partners to provide greater certainty for passengers planning summer holidays. The airport said it will respond to a forthcoming government consultation focused on maintaining the current policy framework that allows airlines scheduling flexibility during periods of fuel supply uncertainty.

The airport added that fuel supplies are currently stable, despite wider concerns linked to the Middle East situation.

In light of the continuing regional conflict, Heathrow confirmed that its 2026 passenger forecast will be reviewed and updated in June. Nevertheless, the airport said its hub model continues to demonstrate resilience by redistributing passengers across its global route network during periods of disruption.

“We know passengers want certainty when planning their hard-earned summer holidays, so we are supporting Government and airlines as they work through their plans to get passengers on their journeys,” said Thomas Woldbye, CEO of Heathrow.

“While we have seen some short-term disruption linked to the Middle East conflict, demand for travel remains strong with current fuel supplies stable. April was still our busiest month so far this year, underlining the strength of a global hub airport that can adapt quickly in times of uncertainty.”