McFly put on pilot uniforms last night for the official switch-on of the Christmas lights at Heathrow airport.

The boys then surprised staff and passengers with a secret gig: possibly the first ever to be performed in an airport.

Heathrow is the world’s busiest international airport, and McFly performed to a crowd of hundreds in Terminal 5 International Arrivals.

After switching on the lights, McFly serenaded passengers and staff with hits such as Party Girl and Shine a Light from their new album, Above the Noise, as well as old favourites, All About You and Star Girl.

The Heathrow Airport Christmas lights will remain on for the whole of the festive season. During that time, three million passengers are expected to fly through Heathrow. Nearly half a million will pass through the airport between Sunday 19 December and Friday 24 December alone.

Passenger John Casey said: “I just touched down from a 10 hour flight and couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw McFly performing.  I’m a huge fan and have always wanted to see them live so this is better than any Christmas present.”

Malcolm Robertson of Heathrow said: “We’re delighted that McFly decided to join us for the official Christmas switch-on to mark the start of the holiday season.  Heathrow doesn’t stop for Christmas, but that doesn’t mean we can’t bring the Christmas spirit to our passengers and staff.”

Did you see the special secret McFly gig? Let us know in the comments below.