Heathrow hotels feel benefit of T5 delays

Source/Contact: Caterer Search, 15/04/2008

Hotel operators near London’s Heathrow airport have reaped the benefit of the chaotic opening of the new Terminal 5, figures have revealed.  A host of problems with BA’s baggage system led to 430 flights being cancelled during T5’s first week in operation following the 27 March opening.  This saw average room rates and occupancy levels hit a five-month high as stranded passengers looked for accommodation, according to research group STR Global.  Its figures showed that average occupancy for Heathrow hotels in March was 78.3% while average room rate was ₤79.25, the highest levels since November.