New aviation strategy shows government is listening to logistics sector, says FTA

Monday 17 December 2018

Today (17 December 2018) the government launched its Aviation Strategy Consultation, which details its long-term vision for aviation to 2050. Alex Veitch, Head of Global Policy at the Freight Transport Association (FTA), the only business group representing all of logistics, commented:

“FTA fully supports the government’s new Aviation Strategy Consultation. 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 air freight – and the businesses it supports – provide over 46,000 jobs and contribute over £1.4 billion 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.”

Veitch continued: “FTA will continue to help government develop a sustainable aviation strategy that sets out a new ambitious approach to a globally connected Britain.”

The consultation paper pledges to explore various ways to facilitate the growth of air freight, for example, through making best use of existing capacity at airports and supporting the implementation of more digital documentation (“e-waybills”), and of course through continuing to support the third runway at Heathrow.

The consultation period will run until 11 April 2019. The final white paper version of the aviation strategy will be published by the middle of 2019. The strategy is available to view here.

Efficient logistics is vital to keep Britain trading, directly having an impact on more than seven million people employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.  With Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc.  A champion and challenger, FTA speaks to Government with one voice on behalf of the whole sector, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers.