Heathrow Sees Passenger Dip as Iran Conflict Weighs on Travel
Europe's busiest airport reported a drop in monthly passenger numbers as the Iran war dents long-haul bookings. The operator said load factors on Middle East and Asia routes have weakened markedly. Airline and airport stocks moved lower.
Heathrow said monthly passenger numbers were down roughly 3% year-on-year. Weakness was concentrated on Dubai, Doha, Tehran and India routes, with airspace closures and rising insurance premiums pushing travellers to defer long-haul trips.
The Iran conflict has limited Gulf airport availability. European carriers have rerouted via longer paths, lifting fuel costs. Heathrow has begun sourcing additional jet fuel from the US as a hedge against potential shortages.
Investors are watching summer load factors and pricing. Management said the full-year passenger target may need to be revisited at the mid-year point.
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