Source: Sharecast
However, Heathrow also said overall growth remained constrained, with the airport operating at full capacity and unable to add flight slots, leaving it trailing some European rivals.
The disruption caused by the US and Israel's conflict with Iran also had a marked effect on Middle East traffic, with passenger numbers falling sharply and around 55,000 travellers affected by cancellations, while flights to and from the region dropped by more than half.
Despite wider supply‑chain pressures, including fuel‑related challenges, Heathrow said operations had remained stable and added that it was continuing to monitor developments closely as it worked with airlines and government authorities to limit disruption.
Heathrow highlighted that performance elsewhere was stronger, particularly across Asia‑Pacific and Africa, which saw notable increases in both passenger volumes and flight movements.
Looking forward, Heathrow warned that its outlook remained "uncertain" for the next few months given ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: "We're doing everything we can to support airlines and passengers as travel trends shift during the Middle East crisis. While Heathrow's long-haul network absorbed demand in March, the outlook for the next few months remains uncertain. I'm proud of what colleagues have achieved to quickly adapt and continue giving passengers a great service during difficult times."
Reporting by Iain Gilbert at Sharecast.com