UK Airports Set for Heaviest Passenger Volumes in January 2026

The start of January brings a sharp rise in air travel across the UK. Many passengers return home after the festive period, while others depart for winter breaks. Airports across the country will manage high passenger numbers as the new year begins.

This analysis was carried out by Private Tours England using January passenger data from 2021 to 2025 published by the UK Civil Aviation Authority. By reviewing five years of trends, the study identifies which airports are most likely to handle the highest passenger volumes in January 2026. The results point to airports that regularly manage large numbers and remain busy at the start of the year.

Heathrow Airport is expected to handle the most passengers by a wide margin. Forecasts suggest 274,824 passengers will pass through the airport in January 2026. As the UK’s main international gateway and largest long-haul hub, Heathrow continues to carry far more traffic than any other airport, with heavy congestion likely during the holiday return period.

Edinburgh Airport ranks second with a projected 211,680 passengers. It remains Scotland’s busiest airport, supported by strong domestic routes, European services, and transatlantic flights. Passenger levels are expected to rise further during the January peak.

Belfast International Airport places third, with an estimated 192,358 passengers. As Northern Ireland’s main airport for domestic and international travel, it will see strong demand linked to family travel and winter holidays.

Glasgow Airport is forecast to handle 154,814 passengers, placing it fourth. The airport serves a wide range of domestic routes and European destinations, which will keep terminals busy through the start of the year.

Gatwick Airport ranks fifth with an expected 142,227 passengers. Known for short-haul and leisure travel, Gatwick will see steady winter traffic, though volumes remain well below Heathrow’s level.

Belfast City Airport, also known as George Best Belfast City Airport, takes sixth place with a projected 104,842 passengers. Its role as a regional airport means January travel demand will place pressure on facilities.

Manchester Airport ranks seventh with 95,696 passengers forecast. As the main airport for the North of England, Manchester supports long-haul, European, and leisure routes, which will contribute to sustained traffic throughout the month.

Stansted Airport is expected to handle 62,997 passengers, placing it eighth. With a strong focus on low-cost carriers and European routes, Stansted will remain active despite the quieter post-holiday period.

Aberdeen Airport ranks ninth with a projected 61,156 passengers. While smaller than other Scottish airports, it remains important for domestic and business travel, helping maintain steady January volumes.

Bristol Airport completes the top ten with 60,967 passengers forecast. Short-haul routes and leisure demand will continue to drive activity as winter travel across Europe remains popular.