London Heathrow Remains No. 1 in Airport Connectivity for Third Straight Year
Munich (MUC) landed among the Top 5 Global Megahubs * Ranked second, Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), closely followed by reigning Megahub London Heathrow (LHR)
OAG, the world’s leading provider of travel data and insights, released its Megahubs Index 2019. The analysis reveals the Top 50 most internationally connected airports in the world and the Top 25 most domestically connected airports in the U.S.
London Heathrow (LHR; International Connectivity Index: 317) is the world’s most internationally connected airport for the third straight year. On the busiest day in aviation this year, over 65,000 international connections were possible within a six-hour window. No. 1 in Airport Connectivity
Frankfurt International Airport (FRA; ICI:309) moved up one spot in this year’s global rankings, giving Europe the top-two spots in the world. Chicago O’Hare (ORD; ICI:290), Amsterdam (AMS; ICI:279), and Munich (MUC; ICI:259) followed closely behind.
“Munich’s 22-point increase in connectivity catapulted the airport from 11th in 2018 to this year’s Top 5. Given the ongoing share battle between Lufthansa and Ryanair for the German market, Munich’s investment to broaden its international network is paying off,” said John Grant, senior analyst with OAG.
The most connected international hubs in the Asia Pacific include Singapore in ninth (SIN; ICI: 240), Hong Kong in 10th (HKG; ICI:234), Incheon in 11th (ICN; ICI:233), and Bangkok in 14th (BKK; ICI:214). Kuala Lumpur (KUL; ICI:150) is the most connected Megahub in the world for low-cost carriers (LCCs).
For more insights from the Megahubs Index 2019 and the full methodology, view the full analysis here.
Heathrow airport & Technology No. 1 in Airport Connectivity
- Heathrow airport is equipped with cutting-edge technology to enhance the passenger experience and improve operational efficiency.
- The airport uses self-service technology, including automated check-in, baggage drop, and border control, to reduce queues and waiting times.
- Heathrow has implemented a digital wayfinding system, providing passengers with real-time information and guidance throughout the airport.
- The airport uses biometric technology, including facial recognition, for passenger identification and streamlining security processes.
- Heathrow has implemented a smart lighting system, using energy-efficient LED lights and motion sensors, to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions.
- The airport uses predictive analytics and machine learning algorithms to optimize operations, including flight scheduling, resource allocation, and maintenance.
- Heathrow has also invested in a digital air traffic control system, improving communication between air traffic controllers and pilots and increasing operational efficiency.