London Stansted Airport, a major gateway to the UK, has achieved a significant milestone by welcoming its busiest day ever. On October 27th, over 107,000 passengers passed through the terminal, surpassing the previous record of 104,000 set on August 23rd. This marks the fourth time in 2024 that Stansted has broken its daily passenger record, demonstrating the strong rebound in travel demand following the pandemic.
The surge in passenger numbers can be attributed to the start of the half-term holidays, with many families choosing Stansted for their vacations and short breaks. Popular destinations included Turkey, the Canary Islands, Spain, and Portugal, highlighting the airport’s role as a hub for European travel.
Stansted also achieved its busiest October on record, with a total of 2.67 million passengers passing through the terminal. This represents a 97,000 increase compared to the previous October, further emphasizing the airport’s growing popularity.
The airport’s success isn’t limited to outbound travel. Inbound travel also reached unprecedented levels, with international visitors flocking to London and the East of England, drawn by major European football matches and NFL games hosted in the capital.
Despite the record-breaking passenger numbers, Stansted maintained operational efficiency. A remarkable 99% of passengers cleared security in 15 minutes or less, with average wait times during peak departure periods holding steady at just two minutes. This efficiency highlights the airport’s commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable experience for travelers.
Over the 12 months ending in October, London Stansted served 29.45 million passengers, reflecting a 6.7% increase compared to the previous year. This continued growth reinforces Stansted’s position as a key player in the UK’s aviation industry and a popular choice for travelers seeking convenient and efficient air travel.