Virgin Atlantic said the London airport has a "poor track record" of forecasting, having projected 45 million annual passengers for 2022, "when the reality will top 62 million".
"It continues to downplay the strength of returning passenger demand to further its agenda of securing higher charges ahead of the CAA’s final decision," a spokesperson said.
"Airlines have repeatedly warned of the need to use accurate forecasts to inform airport resourcing. By maintaining a deliberately pessimistic outlook, customers risk a poorer airport experience.
