London's Heathrow airport saw monthly airfreight volumes in June increase by 13.4% on last year to 142,349 tonnes, with cargo going to and from Latin America up by more than 38% compared with like period 2016.
North America retains its position as the largest cargo market for Heathrow, with June’s volume to these destinations 15.8% higher than last year. For the six months ended June 2017, Heathrow's airfreight volumes are up 9.1% to 823,321 tonnes, compared with half year 2016.
In response to high demand at Heathrow, American Airlines has cargo opened a new expanded pharmaceutical cargo facility. Meanwhile, Heathrow and the Department of International Trade have launched the “World of Opportunity” programme to encourage British SME’s to export abroad.
The UK's Secretary of State, Chris Grayling, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Heathrow expansion and a third runway, saying that the project enjoys widespread political support.
There will be further opportunity to give views during the public consultation later this year, which is part of the Development Consent Order planning process.
Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: "Our record breaking year, month and day figures show Heathrow continues to be the trade and tourist gateway to all of the UK.
"To keep Britain competitive, we need expansion to build more connections for British passengers and exporters and we are glad to see the government pushing forward on the next stages of the delivery. Together we are showing the world the UK remains open for business.”
