The Layover Lowdown: Heathrow Fees, Sustainable Fuels, and Airline Tech

This week on Mileage May Vary, we’re covering the latest developments in the business travel and aviation industries. Tune in for insights into airport fees, air traffic congestion, sustainable aviation, airline tech, and mergers reshaping the global aviation landscape. Heathrow’s Planned Fee Hike Draws Criticism Heathrow Airport plans to raise its drop-off charge to £6 in 2025. The Business Travel Association calls it a “raid on travellers’ wallets” and warns of disproportionate impacts on business travellers. Overcrowded Airspace Disrupts UK Flights European airspace is under pressure due to the Ukraine conflict and rising flight volumes. NATS warns of delays and calls for collaboration to address the congestion. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Growth Falls Short SAF production doubled in 2024 but missed IATA’s projections, comprising just 0.3% of global jet fuel. Airlines urge governments to provide clearer support for SAF adoption. US Flights: Fewer Cancellations, More Passengers U.S. passenger flights rose by 3.5% year-on-year in September, while cancellations dropped to 0.6%. Airlines like Delta and JetBlue recorded the lowest cancellation rates. Korean Air Completes Asiana Airlines Merger Korean Air finalized its acquisition of Asiana, forming the world’s 10th largest airline. Integration plans include unified frequent-flyer programs and network expansions. United Airlines Expands Touchless ID Tech United’s Touchless ID for TSA PreCheck expands to Las Vegas, enabling passengers to clear security with facial recognition. Planning your next business trip? Businesses save time and money with Ortharize—the smarter way to manage corporate travel. Ortharize simplifies booking, offers a suite of business intelligence, and ensures compliance with company travel policies, all while giving your team access to exclusive deals on flights and hotels. Visit Ortharize.com and use the code MMVFREE for 3 months of Premier access for free! With Ortharize, you’ll streamline travel planning and get back to focusing on what really matters—growing your business!