With the air traffic control disruption at Heathrow, the impact is also being felt on air freight which is a critical resource for supplying goods that are urgently needed, like fresh produce and critical components for the technology and manufacturing sectors.
Greater resilience around infrastructure is needed to ensure reliable air connectivity for valuable supply chains. Pawel Jarza, Policy, Compliance and External Affairs Director at British International Freight Association (BIFA), commented:
“The impact of the Heathrow air traffic control disruption extends beyond passengers. A significant volume of air freight is carried in the belly hold of passenger aircraft, meaning cancellations, delays and diversions will also have disrupted the movement of goods and affected the businesses that depend on them. Although the technical issue has been resolved, the knock-on effects are likely to continue for several days especially for urgent, time-sensitive or specialist consignments.
“Air freight is particularly important for goods that are perishable, high-value or urgently needed, which includes fresh produce, medical supplies, and critical components for the automotive, technology and manufacturing sectors. Delays can therefore affect product availability, production schedules, and businesses operating time-sensitive supply chains.
“BIFA members will be working closely with airlines, ground handlers, Customs and their international networks to prioritise shipments, assess alternative routes and keep customers informed as the situation changes. Once normal operations have resumed, there will need to be a clear assessment of what further measures are required to strengthen the resilience of the UK’s aviation infrastructure.
“Reliable air connectivity is essential not only for passengers, but for the supply chains and businesses that depend on Heathrow as a major international cargo gateway.”
- Risk & Resilience