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Tag: air cargo

Extra Flight Strengthens India-Europe Trade Connection

Posted on by David Priestman

Expanding its extensive air network, UPS has nearly doubled its air freight capacity between Delhi and its European Air Hub in Cologne, Germany, to meet growing export demand from Indian businesses.

Using a Boeing 747-8, businesses in key sectors such as automotive, industrial manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, now benefit from increased air cargo capacity and enhanced connectivity to UPS’s global network.

The flight also facilitates connections from Europe to the United States, where UPS maintains the most extensive network of any logistics provider. Driven by strategic policy initiatives, increased competitiveness, and expanded market access, India’s exports hit record levels in 2024 — particularly to its largest export market, the United States.

In Europe, Indian businesses will benefit from stronger links to their key markets through UPS’s leading ground network. By offering Saturday Standard delivery for residential packages without an additional charge across eight major markets, UPS provides Indian exporters with a distinct competitive edge.

“Across Europe and worldwide, there is growing demand for high-quality goods from India from a range of sectors. This expansion of our global air network will create new opportunities for European consumers, as well as for Indian businesses looking to export,” said Daniel Carrera, President, UPS Europe, Middle East, Africa & India.

India’s trade in goods with Europe totaled USD 137.41 billion in 2023-24, making it the country’s largest trading partner. The expansion also comes as India and the UK have agreed a landmark trade agreement.

UPS’s international network is also supported by MOVIN and its expansive domestic delivery network in India. MOVIN, a joint venture between UPS and InterGlobe Enterprises, helps Indian businesses of all sizes by providing reliable delivery services that meet customer expectations quickly and efficiently. MOVIN’s growing network in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities allows small and medium businesses anywhere in the country to reach new markets.

“This additional flight allows us to give Indian businesses of all sizes and industries the fast and reliable service to help them grow and stay competitive. Thanks to our investments we can make logistics a competitive advantage, offering unmatched choice, convenience, and control,” said Grégory Goba-Blé, Head of UPS India and Director MOVIN Express.

UPS has made substantial investments in its capabilities and operations in India to support rising demand. This includes the expansion of the Delhi gateway, nearly doubling processing capacity and enabling later pick-up cut-off times and improved service reliability. Additional enhancements include an expanded gateway in Bengaluru and a new temperature-controlled cross-dock facility in Hyderabad dedicated to more efficiently distribute healthcare shipments.

UPS has also introduced services such as UPS Global Checkout, simplifying cross-border e-commerce, and UPS Premier, designed for time-and temperature-sensitive healthcare shipments. The company further strengthened its presence with the launch of its first technology center in Chennai.

“We welcome this new capacity at Delhi Airport and are proud to support UPS in delivering vital global connections for Indian businesses to Europe, the United States, and beyond,” said Sanjiv Edward, CEO, GMR Cargo.

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DHL Suspends High-Value US Deliveries

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Express has temporarily suspended deliveries of goods worth more than $800 to the United States, citing a “significant increase” in customs red tape linked to new tariff rules introduced by US President Donald Trump.

Starting Today (21st April 2025), the company will halt shipments from businesses in all countries to American consumers for packages above the $800 threshold, stating the move will remain in place “until further notice.” Deliveries between businesses (B2B) will continue but may also experience delays.

Previously, goods valued up to $2,500 could enter the US with minimal paperwork. However, tighter customs checks implemented alongside Trump’s recent tariffs have now lowered that threshold, triggering a spike in formal customs clearances.

DHL said this surge has strained operations:

“While we are working to scale up and manage this increase, shipments worth over $800, regardless of origin, may experience multi-day delays.”

Shipments valued under $800 will still be delivered and continue to face minimal customs scrutiny—for now. But additional changes are on the horizon. On 2 May, the White House is expected to close a loophole that allows low-value packages, particularly from China and Hong Kong, to enter the US without paying duties.

In a related move, Hongkong Post announced it is suspending all sea mail deliveries to the US and will stop accepting any parcels bound for the US starting 27 April. It described the US approach as “unreasonable, bullying and imposing tariffs abusively.”

As global shipping lanes become increasingly entangled with geopolitics and security concerns, logistics providers are facing new challenges in cross-border parcel delivery—particularly into the US.

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Cargo Capacity Boosted to Meet Growing Demand

Posted on by David Priestman

Etihad Cargo, the logistics and cargo division of Etihad Airways, has enhanced its operations to respond to rising customer demand across Greater China. The carrier is increasing its total number of flights between China and other markets from 11 in 2024 to a projected 18 by 2025, reinforcing trade connections between major global regions.

To support this growth, Etihad Cargo will utilize a wet-leased 747 freighter, bolstering freight capacity on high-demand lanes and offering customers enhanced flexibility for shipments to and from key global destinations.

In response to the surging market demand, the airline has introduced three more weekly freighter services to Shenzhen and added two additional flights per week to London. These new routes will significantly improve connectivity between China, Europe, and the Middle East, with expanded capacity for the transport of e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and other time-sensitive goods.

This strategic capacity increase aligns with Etihad Cargo’s broader objective to expand its global footprint and deliver dependable, customer-focused logistics solutions. The airline remains dedicated to providing agile, efficient freight services while advancing Abu Dhabi’s role as a premier global logistics center.

Commenting on the expansion, Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Cargo, said: “Etihad Cargo is continuously investing in network growth and capacity enhancements to support the dynamic needs of global commerce. The added services to Shenzhen and London Stansted reflect our dedication to meeting customer expectations through increased access and stronger trade route connectivity.”

By deepening its footprint in China and strengthening links with Europe, Etihad Cargo is unlocking greater freight capacity to facilitate the smooth flow of goods across international markets.

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Industry Urges Supply Chain Resilience After Heathrow Closure

Heathrow Airport Closes after Power Station Fire

Posted on by David Priestman

The recent events at Heathrow Airport have once again underscored the vulnerability of the UK’s logistics network to unexpected disruptions. As one of the country’s busiest transport hubs, any interruption to operations — particularly on the scale caused by a major power outage — has immediate and far-reaching effects. While passenger inconvenience has dominated headlines, the real and lasting impact on freight and supply chains deserves equal attention.

After the pandemic and Brexit, the British International Freight Association says it thought that there was a better understanding of the critical importance of efficient international supply chains. If the initial mainstream media coverage of the incident at Heathrow is anything to go by, clearly that is not the case, with little mention in the news of the huge disruption to UK supply chains.

The fire at a nearby power station which caused a significant power outage across Heathrow airport has resulted in major disruption with all flights cancelled. The airport is to remain shut until midnight.

PML Seafrigo, whose facilities are unaffected by the fire, is extending an offer to those whose  freight is impacted by the situation, providing a collection service from alternative UK airports where imported  goods have been unexpectedly rerouted. In addition, PML Seafrigo is able to ensure the seamless movement of exported goods to alternative London airports, specifically London Gatwick or Stansted, subject to space and availability.

As expected, most reporting has focused on the immediate impact on flights, terminals and passengers. Regrettably, cargo has been largely overlooked, and the impact will be significant on both import and export movements. Supply chains work based on a consistent flow of goods and this has been severely interrupted – for exports the immediate concern will be that airline sheds will fill up rapidly and be unable to accept fresh freight deliveries, which will then affect other parties. For imports, freight will not arrive at or be diverted from its original final destination.

BIFA says that a big concern for its members is that most cargo is carried in the bellyholds of passenger aircraft and when flights to and from LHR are restored there will be a considerable influx in demand by passengers for seats to continue their journeys. Potentially this will restrict the capacity to move cargo.

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Navigating the Supply Chain Maze

Pacifying Air Cargo

Posted on by David Priestman

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is a vast aviation centre and officially the busiest cargo airport in the world. Home carrier Cathay Pacific naturally has a substantial cargo operation there, as David Priestman reports.

Half the world’s population live within five hours of Hong Kong. With 1100 daily flights to 220 destinations, and three runways, HKIA, also known as Chek Lap Kok, is a true 24/7 operation. Annual cargo capacity is 5 million tonnes, with 2023 throughput of 4.3m tonnes, which is back to pre-covid levels. This ranks HKIA above Memphis (home of FedEx), Shanghai Pudong, Anchorage (surprisingly), Incheon (Korea), Louisville (UPS base), Miami and Doha.

Amongst HKIA’s particular freight advantages are the cold chain facilities, which are IATA accredited for temperature-control. This means pharmaceutical and specialised freight can be well catered for. The airport authority also is also highly-focused on ecommerce, connectivity and digitalization.

Sensitive Handling

Tom Owen is Cargo Director for Cathay. Speaking at the ALMAC conference in Hong Kong (see pages 6-10) he set out the company’s targets. “We’re a top 5 combination cargo carrier,” he stated. Cathay Pacific utilises its own dedicated cargo fleet, including twenty Boeing 747 freighters, and its passenger aircraft belly capacity. Six new A350F have been ordered, with an option for twenty more. The company has a handling capacity of 2.7m tonnes at HKIA. “We’re focused on our ability to handle sensitive, temperature-controlled and dangerous cargo, as well as time-sensitive items,” he added. “We have a net zero target of 2050, using carbon offsetting with our ‘Fly Greener’ initiative, and already 10% of our jet fuel is sustainable (SAF).”

Cathay also owns 60% of Air Hong Kong, which operates an express cargo network to nine countries. DHL owns the other 40% stake and uses Air Hong Kong extensively for regional freight carriage (see page 46). Cathay Cargo also benefits from HKIA’s Dongguan Logistics Park, up the Pearl Delta of the Greater Bay Area in mainland China, by being able to ship manufacturer’s cargo from there directly to an airside intermodal cargo pier at the airport. Export cargo can therefore be processed upstream at a lower cost.

Cathay Cargo’s terminal at HKIA is the newest one there and eleven years old. Import and export, transhipment and cross-border land express freight is managed from here, for ULD containers and other cargo, such as pre-packed pallets (handled by a fleet of Unicarriers forklifts), special goods (including live animals), bulky and loose items. The warehouse has an impressive 2445 container storage positions, featuring Dambach cranes in the bulk store, and 170 truck docks or loading bays. With 1800 staff, including contractors, it is a 24/7 operation, every day of the year.

Getting Fresh

Cargo Terminal Chief Operating Officer, Mark Watts, explained the total cold chain solution on offer, which is secured via the usage of thermal dollies, inflatable truck door seals at the loading bay and multi-temperature cold rooms – one of which I can testify to being bracingly cold in contrast to the ambient weather here! Cathay has developed its own design ULD – ‘MobiFresh’ (pictured). Temperature in them can be remotely controlled and they feature location tracking.

“While Cathay Cargo Terminal is a 100% subsidiary of Cathay Pacific and our largest customer is the Cathay group, including Cathay Cargo, Air Hong Kong and HK Express, our terminal business is run at arms’ length from the airline side of the business and we also serve a diverse range of airlines such as ANA Cargo, China Cargo Airlines, Lufthansa Cargo, Swiss World Cargo, EgyptAir Cargo and others,” Watts told me.

An end-to-end digital import process is the goal, with business customers using online bookings and epayment methods. Lithium battery screening in the warehouse is an unique selling point for Cathay Cargo. Watts is also keen to emphasise the significant recycling of plastic wrap in the facility, which is being increased in a bid for circularity.

November 2024 tonnage was 15% higher year-on-year. Cathay Cargo observed healthy market momentum during the peak season, driven by e-commerce sales events, while the cargo load factor (a metric that measures how well a vehicle’s cargo capacity is being used) rose to 62%. There was high demand for perishables from the Americas and Southwest Pacific, with significant deliveries to Hong Kong and other regional routes in Asia. Additionally, there was an increase in tonnage for the ‘Cathay Expert’ solution due to transportation of machinery and engines, especially from Japan. November also saw the successful launch of the ‘Cathay Courier’ campaign and this year the airline is adding flights to Rome to its schedule.

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US Trade Tariffs Set to Wreak Havoc on Global Supply Chains

Posted on by David Priestman

The global trade landscape is bracing for further turbulence as US President Donald Trump signals that the European Union (EU) could be the next target for tariffs. Following the imposition of 25% levies on goods from Mexico and Canada, along with an additional 10% tax on imports from China, European businesses now face the possibility of similar trade barriers.

Last night (10th February 2025), President Trump confirmed higher tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports – a measure that UK producers say will prove a “devastating blow”.

Rob Shaw, GM EMEA at Fluent Commerce, warns that the market is already in an unstable, ever-changing state, and escalating tariffs could send supply chains into further disarray.

“If the US does proceed with imposing tariffs, other countries will retaliate, as we’ve already seen with China. In this scenario, tariffs may be imposed in the opposite direction, raising costs within the supply chain,” Shaw explains.

“Ultimately, it’s consumers who will bear the brunt of these changes. To protect their profit margins, businesses will inevitably pass on higher costs, placing additional financial strain on buyers already struggling with economic pressures. The exception is the luxury goods market, where high-income consumers will be able to absorb the additional costs.”

The uncertainty has placed UK and EU businesses in a state of limbo, with many preparing contingency plans in case tariffs are imposed. Some companies are considering stockpiling goods to cushion supply disruptions, though this comes with logistical and financial risks. Others are looking to invest in real-time visibility tools to better navigate inventory and supply chain fluctuations.

European Industries Facing a Catch-22 Situation

With potential tariffs looming, some of Europe’s key industries could be forced into difficult decisions. Simon Bowes, CVP Manufacturing Industry Strategy EMEA at Blue Yonder, describes the impact as a “catch-22 dilemma” for sectors like pharmaceuticals.

“Either bear the cost of relocation or absorb the tariffs and face increased costs for manufacturers and consumers,” Bowes explains.

For the luxury goods sector, the impact is expected to be less severe due to the high profit margins that can absorb additional costs. However, the European automotive industry faces a far greater threat.

“For European automotive companies, the threat of tariffs is much more significant. The industry is already struggling due to competition from China, the withdrawal of electric vehicle (EV) subsidies in key markets, and the ongoing transition to European sustainability regulation,” says Bowes.

“As the US is a critical market for European car makers, tariff threats are sending the industry to boiling point—and if placed on internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), it would put a tin lid on everything that’s going bad for the industry.”

With demand for European vehicles in the US already under pressure, tariffs could significantly reduce sales volumes and accelerate production shifts to alternative markets.

Can AI and Tech Help Businesses Navigate the Crisis?

As trade tensions rise, businesses are increasingly turning to technology-driven solutions to navigate the uncertainty. Advanced supply chain management tools and AI-driven scenario modeling are emerging as critical assets for companies trying to mitigate risks.

“As tariff threats loom, businesses critically require flexible tech-led capabilities to execute strategies quickly,” says Bowes.

“Artificial intelligence (AI) can evaluate vast amounts of real-time data. Working like a GPS system, it simulates ‘what if’ scenarios tailored to different variables, meaning businesses can strategically decide the best course of action, whether that is using new suppliers, using a co-manufacturer, or absorbing tariff costs.”

Will Other Countries Retaliate?

One of the most pressing concerns is whether the US tariff strategy will provoke widespread retaliation, leading to a global trade war. If that happens, the ability of businesses to leverage international specialization—such as Taiwan’s semiconductor industry or Germany’s automotive expertise—could be significantly disrupted.

“If US tariffs are imposed, it could set off a chain reaction across the globe,” Bowes warns.

“The rise of tariffs would likely stifle competition and innovation, and while some industries could benefit from protectionism, others would undoubtedly face higher costs and reduced market access.”

The Road Ahead: A Waiting Game for Global Markets

With no immediate resolution in sight, businesses across the UK, EU, and beyond remain in a tense waiting game. If President Trump follows through with EU tariffs, companies will need to adapt quickly—whether through price adjustments, supply chain restructuring, or technological investment.

As global trade remains volatile and unpredictable, one thing is clear: the decisions made in Washington will send ripples through supply chains worldwide.

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Industry Support Reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Posted on by Will Priestman

Panattoni, has announced that its support of the UK Government’s reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport in spring 2026 and the exciting tie up with Munich Airport International GmbH (MAI) as part of the £1.7bn South Yorkshire Airport City initiative to boost the region’s logistics and supply chain infrastructure.

This ambitious project aims to transform the region into a premier logistics and commercial hub, leveraging the airport’s strategic location and extensive connectivity. By integrating high-quality industrial developments with world-class airport operations, South Yorkshire Airport City will attract major national and international businesses, stimulate job creation, and enhance the UK’s trade links. The investment will strengthen Doncaster’s position as a critical node in the UK’s supply chain network, fostering economic resilience and sustainable regional development.

Property developers such as Panattoni are continuing to speculatively develop large-scale projects across the UK to meet demand for industrial and logistics facilities. Panattoni Park Central A1[M], the largest single speculative build currently under construction in the UK, will further supplement industrial growth across the Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire regions.

PANATTONI DONCASTER SHEFFIELD AIRPORT REOPENING

Dan Burn, Head of Development in the Northwest and Yorkshire at Panattoni, said: “The reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport will provide significant opportunities for businesses across Yorkshire and the wider region to expand their operations and access global markets.

“Our nearby developments at Panattoni Doncaster 420 and Panattoni Park Central A1[1] demonstrate our commitment to the region. With excellent transport links, both sites are nationally significant in driving economic growth, and redefining logistics and industrial operations in the region.”

Ros Jones, Mayor of Doncaster, said: “Reopening our airport is my number one priority and today’s announcement is an important day for Doncaster having reached another significant milestone. “This major announcement that I am making today enables us to press ahead with the necessary airport mobilisation activity to see the airport – which I proudly call the people’s airport – to reopen in Spring 2026.”

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Logistics Industry Support Third Runway at Heathrow

Posted on by Will Priestman

The UK government’s support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport has sparked discussions within the freight and logistics sector. Industry representatives emphasize the importance of expanding cargo capacity to meet growing trade demands. While acknowledging the benefits of increased airport capacity, stakeholders also highlight the need for strategic planning to ensure efficient cargo operations. Key industry figures from the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and FedEx Europe share their perspectives on the potential impact of the expansion on UK trade and supply chains.

Speaking on behalf of its members, Steve Parker, director general of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) said:
“The Government’s backing for a third runway at Heathrow is certainly of interest to BIFA members that offer international logistics services for cargoes moving by air,  and although our members will still be wondering when any spade will hit the ground, they are ready to work with the airport authority on streamlining and improving services.

“Whilst we wait for a third runway, BIFA will focus on the airport’s cargo development. And on behalf of our members, BIFA is already working closely with the airport to support its ambitious plans to deliver a fundamental change to the way cargo operates at the airport. The latest plans and software enhancements were revealed last October. These plans would mean a significant redevelopment of the cargo estate set to commence in the next two to three years, as the airport looks to accommodate rising demand, modernise some ageing first-line cargo handling facilities, and improve cargo flows and efficiency.”

Alun Cornish, Manager Director Ramp and Gateways at FedEx Europe, commented:
Expansion at Heathrow is a step in the right direction for UK growth. To fully realise its potential, it’s crucial that expansion plans include provisions for cargo growth alongside passenger flights. The ability to efficiently import and export goods is essential for UK economic growth, so it’s vital that cargo forms part of the UK’s future airport strategy.

Trade is a cornerstone of our economy, and our research last year revealed that the UK remains a leading exporter to both the EU and other global markets. Increased capacity in UK supply chains would be welcomed and would be a key enabler of the UK’s plans for growth.

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IAG Cargo restarts services to Abu Dhabi

Posted on by Will Priestman

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), is announcing the start of its summer schedule which will see an increase in services between its core hubs in London, Madrid, Barcelona and Dublin to key destinations across the world.

  • Restarted services between London and Abu Dhabi for the first time in four years
  • Increased services to the Middle East and Latin America as part of the new summer schedule

As part of the new schedule, services between London Heathrow (LHR) and Abu Dhabi (AUH) will return on the 20th April following a four-year hiatus. This route will benefit from the use of a Boeing 787-9 widebody aircraft and forms part of a 19% increase in weekly rotations to Africa and the Middle East.

Key transatlantic routes will also see a boost in capacity, with a 9% increase in services to Latin America and the Caribbean. This includes an additional three services per week to Buenos Aires (EZE) and up to four services per week to Sao Paulo (GRU) out of Madrid. Furthermore, there will be a doubling of weekly services between London Heathrow and San Diego (SAN), and an extra seven flights per week to Chicago (ORD). IAG Cargo has also launched a new service between Barcelona and Miami (MIA).

Camilo Garcia Cervera, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at IAG Cargo, said: “The new summer schedule will offer enhanced capacity and greater flexibility for our customers. We are particularly pleased to expand our offering in Africa and the Middle East, including the resumption of operations in Abu Dhabi after a four-year absence from our schedule. Abu Dhabi International Airport is emerging as an increasingly important regional logistics hub with state-of-the-art facilities and we are excited to contribute towards its further growth.”

Out of London, IAG Cargo offers capacity to six continents with over 600 weekly wide-body services. Additionally, Dublin serves as a gateway to North America, boasting over 80 weekly wide-body rotations. The business now offers over 240 weekly wide-body services connecting Madrid and Barcelona with destinations across North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Other Recent Schedule Changes Include:

  • Barcelona – San Francisco – restarted on 31st March
  • Madrid – San Francisco – restarted on 2nd April
  • Madrid – Washington – Restarted 2nd April
  • Increased capacity from London to Cincinnati, Chicago, Haneda, San Diego and Vancouver
  • Increased capacity from Madrid to Buenos Aires, Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

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Logistics Boost at Abu Dhabi International Airport

Express Cargo Sorting

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Stansted Airport in Essex is FedEx’s biggest cargo hub in Britain. David Priestman grabbed a tour of the busy facility.

A giant of the logistics world, FedEx has a turnover of $90bn, 500,000 staff in 200 countries, handling over 16 million items per day. Since the acquisition of TNT in 2016 the company, founded over 50 years ago by Fred Smith, its President, has strengthened its road freight network and European presence, with 10% of its employees here.

Stansted is foremost among 68 depot stations and 6 hubs in the UK. Around 400 of FedEx UK’s 10000 employees are based here, the fourth busiest airport in Britain. From Stansted there are direct connections to Paris CDG (the hub for Asia-Europe freight) and Liege in Europe, plus two daily flights from the USA – Indianapolis and Memphis, the global hub. 60% of items handled here are imports, 40% exports.

Import sorting

Managing Director of Ramp and Gateways Operations for Northern Europe, Alun Cornish, has been with the company for 20 years. The tour started with the customs hold ‘cage’. “When regulations change we see an increase in goods held temporarily in the cage,” he informed me. “FedEx are ready for the new UK government Customs Declaration Service, even with the further delays till March. The new import system is the next step in the modernisation of our Stansted operation.” Imported items requiring declaration are intercepted automatically by the sorters and held for customs duties or inspection. The UK Border Force has its own area and staff within the warehouse. About 8% of total volume comes to the cage, with 5700 packages there on average, at any one time.

The import sort facility is adjacent to the airside apron at Stansted, with ULD (unit load device) air containers fed directly on to a castor floor. A manifest is provided to HMRC as each cargo plane lands. A new installation by Vanderlande has doubled throughput capacity to 6000 items per hour, to cater for demand. Phase two was still being completed when I visited. A dangerous goods area is utilised for compliance checks on such items going onwards domestically by truck. “This is a fundamental part of our value proposition,” Cornish stated. FedEx are focusing on increasing the quantity of pharmaceutical and medical freight here, as they are priority products. The facility has fridges, freezers and dry ice here for them.

The new parcel sorting system will speed up the processing of imports. It is equipped with technology from Sick that captures data points via barcode scanning, providing instant updates to the FedEx operations team and the customer receiving the goods. “This is the brains of the system,” Cornish informed. The system has the flexibility to connect to a range of different outfeeds, meaning parcels can be loaded into a number of different types of vehicles for onward connection. For example, a flight from Paris CDG arriving at 04.00 is unloaded, delivered to the import sorters, split and loaded on to trucks to the other hubs or on to vans to the final delivery destination that day.

Export sorting

$25m has been invested by FedEx in a number of projects to improve the Stansted facility. The new exporting system was introduced to speed up the flow of goods through the facility, resulting in approximately 80% of shipments bound for international markets being scanned and processed by machines. Capacity is determined by the speed of the sorter through the x-ray scan tunnels, and the system maintains gaps between packages by selecting which belt to send them on. Accuracy has improved and the system can handle various dimensions. Some items, such as liquids, are still sent for manual x-ray in a separate room. FedEx’s customer service teams assist with new export compliance issues. Sniffer dogs are deployed on site – 5 Springer Spaniels, each with trained expertise for specific substances, such as explosives.

Rob Peto is the VP of Operations, UK and Ireland. He said growth in 2023 was driven by ecommerce and sales team success with big intercontinental freight contracts. “We have a great product portfolio; we can do bespoke special services, high priority or cheap deferred freight. I look at where we have imbalances (between inbound and outbound loads) and the capacity to align them. Our job is to help our customers be successful, to connect.”

Greening parcels

Peto and his team analyse trade lane trends and develop services such as FedEx International Connect Plus – an ecommerce offering to give retailers customer access globally. FedEx Delivery Manager enables day-specific and alternative delivery locations to be selected and tracked. For urban, last mile delivery in the UK the company is now using some British-made third generation e-cargo bikes to reduce emissions. They can carry up to 170kgs. Some electric vans are deployed, mainly in London. FedEx has set a target of achieving net zero by 2040, with half of new vehicles being EVs by 2030. Trucks for line-hauling are trialling alternative fuels.

I asked Peto whether FedEx, like many logistics businesses, are finding it challenging to recruit and retain staff? “Its fine,” he replied. “There are always hotspots. We did see driver shortages but ensured we covered that via training and with partners.” FedEx utilise jobs fairs and colleges for local hiring. “The reduction of passenger airline staffing in winters means we can pick-up those looking for more work then,” added Cornish.

Express Cargo

Going airside

Boeing 777 dedicated freighters are the main aircraft used for transatlantic and intra-Europe routes. New aircraft are quieter, emit less CO2 and use sustainable fuels. They are referred to as ‘purple tail’ – the company’s own fleet – with passenger airlines’ belly capacities used as well.

The flight from Indianapolis arrived, on time, and I was pleased to be able to witness it being unloaded first-hand by literally squeezing myself from the behind the cockpit, back between the ULDs and the bare fuselage wall. Every possible square metre of space is utilised on a freighter! The upper deck is offloaded first, via the skeet castor floor on to a giant scissor lift. The ULDs and the assorted palletised consignments are moved swiftly. Each has an overhead fire suppression system, developed by FedEx, that can puncture the ULD before pump injecting argon-based foam. They certainly must help the pilots relax and focus on flying.

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