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Expansion of Heathrow (Post-WWII)

Expansion of Heathrow### Introduction

Heathrow Airport has undergone significant expansions since its inception in 1946, transforming it into one of Europe's busiest international airports. The airport's rapid growth was driven by post-war demand for air travel, as well as the establishment of new airlines and routes.

Key Facts

  • First Flight: Heathrow's first scheduled flight took place on May 31, 1946.
  • Expansion Period: The airport underwent two major expansions: the North Circular Road expansion (1958-1960) and the South Circular Road expansion (1971-1972).
  • Capacity Growth: Heathrow's annual capacity increased from approximately 400,000 passengers in 1947 to over 40 million by the late 1990s.
  • Aircraft Fleet: The airport now operates a diverse fleet of over 200 aircraft.

Historical Context

Heathrow Airport was established during World War II as an emergency airfield, serving as a temporary base for Allied forces and transport planes. After the war, it began to expand rapidly, driven by post-war demand for air travel and the establishment of new airlines.

  • Post-War Growth: Heathrow's capacity increased significantly in the 1950s and 1960s, with many new terminals built during this period.
  • Expansion Plans: The airport has continued to expand over the years, with various proposals and plans for future growth. However, these have been met with controversy and delays.

Significant Contributions

Heathrow Airport has made significant contributions to aviation, economy, and society:

  • Air Transport Association (ATA): Heathrow is a major hub for the ATA, which represents airlines in Europe.
  • Air Traffic Control: The airport operates its own air traffic control system, which handles thousands of flights per day.
  • Airport Management: Heathrow has implemented various management systems to optimize operations and reduce costs.

Notable Attractions

The airport features numerous notable attractions:

  • Terminals 2-4: These modern terminals offer high-speed security checks, check-in areas, and lounges for passengers.
  • Runway Extension: A new runway was added in the 1990s to increase capacity and improve safety.
  • Green Spaces: Heathrow has incorporated numerous green spaces throughout its operations, including a large parkland area near the airport. These areas provide habitat

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