The UK's Freight Transport Association (FTA) has welcomed the government's new aviation strategy consultation for its recognition of the importance of air cargo and drive towards digitalisation.
Yesterday, the UK government opened a consultation for its Aviation 2050: The Future of UK Aviation, which runs until April 11. The final white paper version of the aviation strategy will be published in the middle of 2019.
The consultation paper pledges to explore various ways to facilitate the growth of airfreight, for example, through making best use of existing capacity at airports, supporting the implementation of more digital documentation and through continuing to support the third runway at Heathrow.
FTA head of global policy Alex Veitch said: "The paper shows the government is listening to the needs of the logistics sector and recognises the importance of air cargo to the UK economy – not just in the value of goods moved but in the businesses these products support and allow to thrive.
"The paper states that airfreight – and the businesses it supports – provides over 46,000 jobs and contributes over £1.4bn to the UK economy; FTA is pleased to see air cargo take such a prominent place within the strategy. A thriving long-haul air passenger market is also crucial to UK trade and it’s promising to see this recognised.
“FTA will continue to help government develop a sustainable aviation strategy that sets out a new ambitious approach to a globally connected Britain.”
More information on the consultation document can be found here.
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