More than 200,000 passengers a day will travel through Heathrow this weekend as British families look forward to making the most of the half-term break. The UK's only hub airport is preparing for the big autumn getaway with 842,600 passengers due to travel over the weekend.
The number of people expected to travel through Heathrow is up 7.2% on last year, building on the record numbers of passengers in the busiest September the airport has seen. The most popular day of the weekend for travel will be Friday with 219,500 passengers expected.
The top destinations for passengers this year are New York and Dubai, with trips to the Empire State Building and The Palm a far cry from the days when the zoo was the most exotic location available to many families. Dublin, Amsterdam and Paris round out the top five.
Meanwhile, many passengers will travel from elsewhere in the UK to Heathrow in order to travel to London or transfer to one of the dozens of connecting flights offered by the country's major international gateway.
Nick Cullen, Heathrow's chief operating officer commented:
"This half-term weekend is even more popular than last year, with passengers going on holiday or flying to visit friends and family. The rise reflects Heathrow's unique position as a hub airport, which means we are able to offer exciting and diverse destinations like New York and Dubai amongst more than 180 cities all around the world. Our teams are looking forward to welcoming passengers across the weekend."
Passengers travelling this weekend can make their journey smoother by arriving prepared for security. Liquid items can be carried in individual containers not exceeding 100ml each, providing they are carried in one resealable clear plastic bag measuring no more than 20cm x 20cm (8" x 8"). Passengers should check with their airline for any other hand-baggage restrictions.
Packing tips and advice for passengers is available at www.heathrowairport.com/security.
