Heathrow Airport has announced a £1.3 billion investment programme for 2026, building on a year marked by record growth, strong operational performance, and industry-leading punctuality. The funding forms part of the airport’s ongoing five-year capital programme (H7) and is aimed at delivering smoother journeys, improved resilience, and a more inclusive passenger experience, while also supporting jobs across the UK supply chain.
The 2026 investment follows a year in which Heathrow was named the most punctual hub airport in Europe, reflecting sustained efforts to improve reliability and service quality. Over the past year, almost 99 per cent of bags travelled on their expected flights, while 97 per cent of passengers cleared security in under five minutes. From January, passengers across all four terminals will benefit from next-generation security technology, further improving the airport experience.
A major focus of the 2026 programme is infrastructure renewal and modernisation. Heathrow will begin a comprehensive revamp of Terminal 4, including the construction of a new multi-storey car park and a significantly upgraded check-in area. The redevelopment will be delivered in phases to ensure uninterrupted operations at the terminal and is scheduled for completion in 2031.
Construction will also start on a new dedicated baggage system for Terminal 2. Once operational, the system will be capable of handling up to 31,000 bags per day, delivering more resilient and efficient baggage services. The upgrade is expected to reduce misconnected bags, improve reliability for passengers, and lower operational costs for airlines.
To further enhance efficiency, Heathrow is rolling out a new network of AI-enabled cameras across aircraft stands. The system analyses real-time data to speed up aircraft turnaround times, helping airlines save time and money while improving punctuality for passengers. The rollout, being delivered in collaboration with airlines and ground handlers, will continue across all terminals, with full coverage expected by the end of 2026.
Accessibility remains a core pillar of the airport’s investment strategy. In 2026, Heathrow will open a new purpose-built assistance area in Terminal 2, offering passengers with reduced mobility direct and dedicated access to security for the first time. This will be supported by new mobility equipment and upgraded assistance facilities across the airport.
The airport will also introduce its Tailored Travel Guide—the first of its kind at a UK airport—allowing passengers with access needs to input their journey details and receive a personalised, step-by-step guide explaining what to expect at every stage of their trip through Heathrow.
Heathrow Chief Executive Officer, Thomas Woldbye, said passengers should expect continuous improvement every time they travel through the airport. He noted that last year’s focus on operational performance had delivered tangible results and that the 2026 investment programme would make Heathrow more user-friendly, efficient, and resilient. He added that the spending would directly support Heathrow’s nationwide supply chain, helping to drive economic growth across the UK.
The £1.3 billion programme sits within Heathrow’s current H7 investment framework. Separately, the UK Government has expressed its ambition for Heathrow to expand with a third runway operational within the next decade. Planning for that expansion, as well as investment under the next regulatory period from 2027 to 2031 (H8), will depend on the Government and the Civil Aviation Authority establishing the necessary policy and regulatory frameworks.
With sustained investment, improving punctuality, and a strong focus on passenger experience, Heathrow says it is continuing its journey to become an extraordinary airport—fit for the future and ready to meet growing demand.
