# Gatwick profits fall as Iran war sees passenger numbers drop

By Susannah Streeter — 2026-08-26

Susannah Streeter, chief investment strategist at Wealth Club, knows the challenges airports face from the war in Iran after Gatwick’s profits fell.

She said: “Gatwick’s results are a clear snapshot of the unwelcome waves caused by the Iran war across the travel industry.

“Demand for long-haul flights has been hit hard, with passenger numbers down 9.2 per cent in the first half, but even short-haul flights were affected, with bookings coming in 3.9 per cent lower.

“With so many flights cancelled or disrupted and some routes remaining suspended, it’s clearly been a highly challenging time.

“Uncertainty about how the conflict would evolve, alongside worries about jet-fuel shortages, have also made travellers more nervy about booking in advance.

“These are turbulent conditions to navigate for the airline industry and will have a knock-on effect for a whole raft of companies reliant on airport trade.

“From retailers and restaurants to hotels, car hire companies and in-flight catering firms, the drop in passengers has significant repercussions.

“If uncertainty persists, consumers may continue to delay bookings or opt for shorter, closer-to-home breaks, particularly if household budgets are already being squeezed by higher energy and food bills.”

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