Summer breeze: Stansted sets new passenger and cargo records

The 12-month total to the end of April stood at 28.64 million passengers, an increase of 10.8 per cent on the previous year.

Stansted’s cargo operation, which provides London and the East of England business communities with convenient access to Europe, USA, the Far and Middle East, also experienced a record-breaking month as more than 27,000 tonnes of freight passed through the airport, the highest monthly total ever.

This global connectivity is vital to the business ecosystem, particularly in the Greater Cambridge area, supporting businesses in a wide range of sectors to trade globally, as well as facilitating international e-commerce.

Operational performance in April remained resilient, with 98 per cent of departing passengers passing through security in 15 minutes or less, and with an average queue time of three minutes during the main departure peaks.

Managing director Gareth Powell said: “April was another very strong month for London Stansted with both passenger and cargo numbers hitting new highs, thanks to our extensive passenger route network, the efficiency and simplicity of the airport’s operation and the global connectivity provided by our cargo carriers.

“The Easter holidays at the start of the month were particularly busy, but thanks to the dedication and teamwork shown by colleagues right across the airport, we were able to deliver a smooth airport journey for our passengers.

“In addition to our passenger services, the record volumes of freight passing through Stansted is yet another indication of the vital role the airport plays in supporting the economic success of the region we serve.

“The freight and mail operations here not only support the next day delivery service so many of us now take for granted when shopping, but it also enables businesses from London to Cambridge, and right across the East of England, to serve international markets and increase global trade, generate new business and create more jobs via the convenience of a major international airport at the heart of the region.

“Later this month we have the half-term holidays, so we are now fully focused on maintaining our operational performance as we prepare to welcome the hundreds of thousands of people heading away, plus the large number of overseas visitors choosing London Stansted as their gateway to London, the East of England and beyond.”