FTA hopes new runway is a step closer

The FTA hope response by Heathrow will bring the construction of a third runway a step closer.

Following the announcement that Heathrow would curb night flights and cut pollution to adhere to the restrictions put forward by the Davies Commision, the FTA hope the response by Heathrow by recommendations by the Airports Commission will bring the construction of a third runway one step closer.

Heathrow responded with an agreement that exceeds conditions, and have put in place a Skills Taskforce with 10,000 apprenticeships for local, young people.

Yesterday, hosted by the FTA, a “Future of Airports in the UK” seminar was held at MultiModal 2016 in Birmingham, where capacity was high on the agenda. The FTA’s new Air Freight Working Group discussed also discussed the issue when it met earlier this month.

Nick Platts, Head of Cargo at Healthrow airport, discussed how air freight was an important and vital role that was often overlooked, saying it had been “passed to the back of the queue for far too long”. He highlighted the importance that it has on the economy, and how it should be recognised, adding that Heathrow was committed to creating a quieter, cleaner airport equipped to serve as a world class air hub for years to come.

Mr Platts said: “As an industry we need to collaborate more and engage with others regarding strategic issues so that the UK benefits and we can grow our exports.  Heathrow recognises that we have a key role to play, and is looking for partners to transform cargo at the airport.

“We are looking forward to working with the FTA and its Air Freight Working Group on areas of common interest.”

Chris Welsh, FTA’s Director of Global and European Policy, said: “Air freight accounts for almost 40 per cent of UK imports and exports by value and employs 39,000 people in and around Heathrow so it’s crucial that a decision is not delayed further. Hopefully this announcement today will move things on after a long and frustrating wait.”

 

 

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