Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Heathrow sees passenger numbers continue to fall

Aerospace

Heathrow sees passenger numbers continue to fall

Passenger numbers at Heathrow fell by 88% in November, as travel restrictions and a second lockdown took their toll.

Image courtesy Heathrow

Based on current forecasts and continued decline in passengers, the decision has been taken for Terminal 4 to remain non-operational until the end of 2021.
        
Heathrow is calling for targeted, sector specific Government support to protect jobs and help drive the UK’s economic recovery. These include full business rates relief for all UK airports and abandoning what it calls the disastrous 'tourist tax' which will make the UK the only country in Europe not to offer tax-free shopping for international visitors.

Advertisement
Teledyne

The move is expected to result in 2,000 retail job losses at Heathrow alone.
        
Cargo volumes at Heathrow remain significantly below last year, reflecting the impact of COVID-19 on the UK’s international trade.

Heathrow has partnered with transatlantic carriers British Airways, American Airlines, United Airlines and Virgin Atlantic on a cross-industry study aimed at eradicating the need for quarantine for passengers, by demonstrating the effectiveness of pre-departure testing in reducing transmission while making free movement easier.

Heathrow CEO, John Holland-Kaye said: “2021 should be the year of Britain’s economic recovery. But recent announcements, such as the tourist tax, could be the final nail in the coffin for struggling businesses such restaurants, hotels and theatres that rely on inbound tourists, as well as for retailers.

Advertisement
ODU RT

"To make Global Britain a reality, the government should be helping the aviation sector to survive, to develop routes to our key trading partners, and attract businesses and tourists to come to Britain to spend their money."

 

Advertisement
Cranfield University
Bombardier’s paint facility at Biggin Hill set for 2026 opening

Aerospace

Bombardier’s paint facility at Biggin Hill set for 2026 opening

14 July 2025

Bombardier's development of a new 51,000 sq. ft. paint facility at the London Biggin Hill Service Centre is progressing with several key processes completed, including ground stabilisation and foundation work on the hangar.

AAIB launches investigation into incident at Southend Airport

Aerospace

AAIB launches investigation into incident at Southend Airport

14 July 2025

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has started an investigation into an incident near Southend Airport on Sunday 13th July, involving a 12-metre plane that crashed shortly after take-off.

First electric flight lands at Gatwick

Aerospace

First electric flight lands at Gatwick

14 July 2025

The first ever electric flight to land at London Gatwick took place last Thursday as part of the VINCI Airports Network Elektro Tour.

Airframe Designs appoints new Advisory Board chairman

Aerospace

Airframe Designs appoints new Advisory Board chairman

14 July 2025

Aerospace specialist Airframe Designs has appointed David Roberts as the new chairman of its Advisory Board, as it continues to expand its services in engineering and additive manufacturing to the aviation and related sectors worldwide.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025
Birmingham Airport unveils terminal upgrades

Aerospace

Birmingham Airport unveils terminal upgrades

14 July 2025

Birmingham Airport (BHX) has unveiled its latest terminal investment as it opened extended boarding gate lounges.

Frequentis enhances Gatwick

Aerospace

Frequentis enhances Gatwick's departure efficiency

14 July 2025

London Gatwick has deployed the Frequentis Departure Manager (DMAN) system that went into full network mode on 23rd June 2025 as part of Gatwick’s Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) programme, which is connected to the EUROCONTROL Network Manager, enabling better coordination across European airspace.

Advertisement
ODU RT