London Heathrow Airport welcomes record September passengers while maintaining punctuality and security across Europe

Credit: London Heathrow Airport

London Heathrow Airport welcomed nearly 7.4 million passengers in September 2025, marking its busiest September ever and rounding off a record-breaking summer. Despite an unexpected Collins Aerospace IT issue affecting airline systems across Europe, teams worked tirelessly to maintain smooth operations and avoid cancellations, reflecting the airport’s commitment to stress-free journeys.

Heathrow remained Europe’s most punctual hub and was named the most connected airport in the world for the third consecutive year. Security performance was strong, with 95% of passengers waiting less than five minutes.

As the UK’s largest port by value, Heathrow helped drive over £215 billion in trade last year, underlining its role in economic growth. The £1.3 billion investment plan for the coming year will focus on better service, operational resilience, and growth for airlines and UK businesses.

Plans were also announced for a 100% privately financed, wider and safer section of motorway on the M25 as part of the third runway development. The new stretch will be built 130 metres to the west, minimising disruption for motorists.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said:

“This summer at Heathrow was one to be celebrated. Operating Europe’s largest airport doesn’t come without its challenges, but I’m proud that our team delivered under pressure — welcoming nearly 7.4 million passengers in September alone while maintaining strong performance in punctuality and security. We continued to lead the pack in global connectivity, all while keeping the passenger experience smooth for millions. It’s a clear sign that Heathrow is vital to the UK’s economic growth and why we will continue to invest in our airport – opening up even more opportunities for passengers, airlines, and the country.”

Passenger traffic September 2025 (000s)

UK 383 (+1.2%), EU 2,599 (+2.5%), Non-EU Europe 459 (−1.9%), Africa 277 (+5.1%), North America 1,859 (−0.6%), Latin America 165 (−3.8%), Middle East 702 (−0.7%), Asia/Pacific 904 (+1.2%)

Total: 7,348 (+0.8%)

Air transport movements September 2025

UK 2,893 (−1.3%), EU 18,090 (+1.7%), Non-EU Europe 3,090 (−6.8%), Africa 1,157 (+0.7%), North America 8,197 (+2.4%), Latin America 644 (−5.8%), Middle East 2,534 (−1.9%), Asia/Pacific 3,588 (+1.8%)

Total: 40,193 (+0.5%)

Cargo September 2025 (metric tonnes)

UK 35 (+11.7%), EU 5,684 (−6.7%), Non-EU Europe 3,531 (+6.9%), Africa 7,573 (−8.3%), North America 50,134 (−4.0%), Latin America 4,315 (−1.7%), Middle East 20,794 (−2.8%), Asia/Pacific 32,571 (+2.3%)

Total: 124,637 (−2.3%)

Year-to-date January–September 2025

Passengers: 63,275 (+0.3%), Air transport movements: 358,018 (+0.6%), Cargo: 1,175,019 (+1.8%)

October 2024–September 2025

Passengers: 84,065 (+1.5%), Air transport movements: 475,936 (+0.9%), Cargo: 1,601,195 (+2.6%)

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