Heathrow has become the first airport to be named Europe’s best major airport for the third time by Airport Council International (ACI).

The accolade from the only worldwide professional association of airport operators comes in recognition of Heathrow’s high service standards and its record high airport service quality score (4.16).

Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye reacting by saying: “I am very proud of the work our colleagues do every day while giving better value to passengers.”

The award came just as Heathrow announced its half-year results, which saw a one per cent rise in revenue, turning over £1.32 billion between January and June, with pre tax-profits of £75 million.

Passenger numbers climbed 0.6 per cent to 35.7 million, while cargo volumes were up by almost two per cent.

“As the UK’s biggest port, we are supporting businesses from every corner of Britain to get their products to global markets,” added Mr Holland-Kaye.

The Heathrow head used the announcement to yet again call on the government to approve the building of its long-debated third runway.

“Britain needs a positive post-Brexit plan and only Heathrow expansion will help Britain to be one of the world’s leading trading nations,” he stressed.