The West London hub also reported a rise in the number of passengers per aircraft (up 1.9% to 160) with load factors “remaining constant” at 76.5%.

Heathrow continues to grow services to emerging markets. Passengers volumes to China (+14%), Latin America (+8%) and the Middle East (+6%) all rose).

Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kaye said: "2015 has been a banner year for Heathrow, serving more passengers than ever and being recognised in a number of awards as the best major airport in Europe for both passenger service and eco-innovation.  

"The record levels of passenger satisfaction are due to a significant increase in training, apprenticeships and the number of front line colleagues moving into management roles."

Heathrow is currently vying with rival Gatwick for the right to build an additional runway.

In July last year the Airports Commission recommended a scheme put forward by Heathrow.

The government promised a response by the end of 2015 but this has now been put back until the summer while further research is conducted.