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Heathrow Chief Defends Crowding Claims, Flags Uncertainty Over Third Runway

He attributes passenger frustration to poor flow rather than capacity.

Overview

  • Thomas Woldbye argues that British travelers tend to keep left and many Europeans keep right, creating collisions that make Terminals 2 and 5 feel busier than they are.
  • Heathrow will remove clutter such as phone boxes and some seats, reposition information counters, refresh signage, and adopt a passengers‑per‑square‑metre‑per‑minute metric to improve movement.
  • The airport handled about 84.5 million passengers last year and is pressing ahead with upgrades including a £1.3 billion overhaul of Terminal 4, a new Terminal 2 baggage system, AI stand cameras, and enhanced assistance areas.
  • Despite UK government approval for a £49 billion expansion, Woldbye says he is not sure the proposed third runway can meet regulatory requirements, with key steps still needed before construction can begin.
  • Airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority have questioned affordability and potential charges, leaving the previously outlined 2027–mid‑2030s timetable subject to further approvals and cost scrutiny.