Record December ensures 2023 ends on a high

London Stansted rounded off a strong passenger performance in 2023 by welcoming more than 2 million passengers in December.

The monthly total was an increase of 12.1% on the same month last year, and the busiest ever December recorded at the airport.

The total number of passengers that passed through the airport in 2023 reached 27.96million, up a fifth on 2022 - marking the third busiest year ever for London Stansted.

Stansted’s extensive route network plus efficient operational performance yet again proved extremely popular with passengers in December, especially with those flying off to visit family and friends over the festive season.

The Canary Islands, Southern Spain, Turkey and Dubai were in high demand for those seeking a sunshine break over Christmas, while for those seeking a more traditional winter experience, destinations in France, Italy, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, and Scandinavia were among the top choices.

Operational performance in December remained solid, with over 96% of passengers passing through security in 15 minutes or less, with an average queue time of 4m 49s during the busiest departure peaks.

Gareth Powell, London Stansted’s Managing Director, said:

“To end the year with another strong performance in December once again demonstrates the strength and appeal of Stansted’s extensive route network, plus the great value and operational efficiency we offer all our passengers.

“To welcome more passengers than in any previous December, and successfully provide a strong operational performance during such a busy period was down to the commitment, hard work and close collaboration of all colleagues and business partners across the airport.

“Stansted’s strong, sustained and positive recovery during 2023 was an excellent achievement for everyone connected with the airport, but we have now entered a period of passenger growth and an even busier 12 months ahead.

“Our full focus is on maintaining and building on this success by adding even more choice to our route network and continuing to deliver our significant investment programme to transform every stage of the airport experience as we look forward to what we expect to be an even busier year ahead of us.”