London City Airport (LCY) is set to undergo an expansion, increasing its capacity to handle up to 9 million passengers annually. This expansion will also allow for additional early morning flights, making travel to various European destinations more convenient. Despite the expansion, the airport’s operating hours will remain unchanged.
London City Airport (EGLC) will significantly increase its passenger capacity, allowing for 9 million passengers annually. This expansion comes after the UK government overturned a local veto and will see the airport add three additional flights during early weekday mornings, while maintaining existing operating hours and environmental commitments.
Birmingham Airport (BHX) is experiencing significant growth, with passenger numbers reaching 11.4 million in 2023. The airport is aggressively pursuing long-haul opportunities, particularly to North America and Asia, aiming to serve 18 million passengers by 2033. This expansion is supported by a strategic focus on route development, attracting new airlines, and strengthening existing partnerships.
Ethiopian Airlines has invested 50 million USD to expand and renovate the Domestic Terminal at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. The expansion has increased the terminal’s built-up area to 25,750 m2, significantly enhancing its capacity. The new terminal features advanced airport systems and amenities, including four contact gates, 10 remote departure gates, 22 check-in counters with an automated baggage screening system, self-check-in kiosks, a modern security screening system, and a premier passengers’ lounge. The transformation is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to modernizing aviation facilities and improving air transport services within Ethiopia.
OMA, backed by VINCI Airports, has initiated a 400 million euro investment in Monterrey International Airport, marking a significant step in a 5-year plan to enhance Mexico’s infrastructure. The project aims to increase the airport’s capacity by 50%, accommodating approximately 18 million passengers annually. This investment reinforces OMA’s commitment to modernizing and upgrading airport facilities in Nuevo León.
Dubai has initiated construction on a new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, projected to become the world’s largest airport with an annual passenger capacity of 260 million. According to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the airport’s capacity will be five times that of Dubai International Airport, making it one of the busiest air hubs globally.
Heathrow Airport is accelerating its review of plans for a third runway after witnessing a faster-than-anticipated rebound in passenger numbers following the pandemic. The airport’s chief financial officer, Javier Echave, stated that they aim to make a decision on restarting the project, which was shelved during the COVID-19 pandemic, as swiftly as possible due to the growing influx of passengers. Despite emphasizing the significance and complexity of the issue, Echave declined to specify a timeline for the decision.
Heathrow recently increased its passenger forecast for 2024 to 82.4 million, surpassing the previous record of 80.9 million set in 2019. However, local MP Greg Hands expressed concerns about the potential impact on his constituents and pledged to oppose any plans for a third runway. Environmental groups, such as HACAN, criticized the lack of details surrounding the proposal, citing concerns about noise and air pollution for local communities.
Despite the strike threat from 800 workers over outsourcing of jobs, Heathrow remains confident in its operational plans to ensure smooth airport operations during the strike period. The airport has witnessed a record-breaking quarter, with passenger numbers increasing by 9.5% and full-year growth expectations rising.
