2024: A Manifesto for UK Air Cargo

Now in its third year, the annual air cargo seminar, jointly hosted by Logistics UK and Airlines UK, brought together policy makers, decision makers, operators, academics, and everyone in between to hear about, and discuss, the vital role of air freight and what the sector wants to ask of a new government in an election year. 

The event’s keynote speech was delivered by Aviation Minister Anthony Browne MP, who spoke about how government was breaking up silos and creating joined up thinking in air freight development, and how government will be working “shoulder to shoulder” with the industry. Ahead of the consultation on night flights, the Minister acknowledged that they are “critical for freight” but that a balanced approach to their delivery also remains important. 

The event’s first panel discussion featured speakers from Heathrow Airport, European Cargo, AICES and the Department for Transport. 

Following presentations by Sustainable Aviation and York Aviation, the second and final panel of the afternoon included speakers from IAG Cargo, East Midlands Airport York Aviation and the Department for Business and Trade. 

The message to attendees was clear; increased capacity will be necessary for UK businesses to provide expanded international services and continue to compete on the international stage. 

The manifesto asks from the private sector representatives on both panels aligned, with the need for increased capacity and support for decarbonisation being crucial for the sector. 

Alexandra Herdman, Senior Policy Manager at Logistics UK said: ‘Now in our third year, this series of air cargo seminars has gone from strength to strength. To hear from the aviation minister that our policy asks on planning and night flights are being recognised, not only in the Department for Transport, but across Whitehall, is testament to the challenging work of the air freight sector and the people who work in it, keeping Britain trading and competitive on a global scale. As an island nation, we rely on air freight more than other countries and the purpose of this seminar in educating and informing a wider audience has been a true success’. 

The seminar was sponsored by East Midlands Airport and European Cargo. 

Published On: 14/03/2024 00:00:00

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