London Gatwick strengthens freight network with cargo hub deal

London Gatwick has acquired control of the on-airport World Cargo Centre, a move aimed at strengthening freight operations and supporting long-term cargo growth across South East England. The airport said the acquisition places one of its key freight handling facilities fully under its operational control as demand for air cargo continues to rise.

The 1,747 sqm World Cargo Centre is located adjacent to the airport airfield and serves as a key hub for freight handling activities at the airport. London Gatwick said the acquisition will help protect infrastructure linked to international trade flows while supporting future airfield development associated with the airport’s Northern Runway programme.

The airport said most freight currently handled at London Gatwick is transported in the bellyhold capacity of long-haul passenger aircraft operating on routes to Asia, Africa and the Middle East. By integrating the World Cargo Centre into its operational estate, the airport aims to maintain continuity for businesses operating at the site while improving resilience across its cargo network.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer at London Gatwick, said: “Freight is a crucial part of how London Gatwick supports trade and economic growth across the South East and beyond. Bringing the World Cargo Centre fully into our estate secures the infrastructure that already keeps goods moving, strengthens resilience, and ensures we are ready to support future growth - while maintaining continuity for the businesses operating on site.”

The acquisition comes as the airport advances plans linked to the Northern Runway project. Government approval granted in September last year for the routine use of the Northern Runway alongside the Main Runway is expected to increase the airport’s annual flight capacity to 389,000 movements.

London Gatwick said cargo volumes are projected to rise to 161,500 tonnes by the late 2030s as a result of the runway expansion. Independent analysis by Oxford Economics estimated that the value of imported cargo passing through the airport could reach £9.8bn annually by 2038. The study stated this would represent more than double 2019 levels and £2.1bn more than projected without the Northern Runway expansion.

The airport also said freight growth linked to the runway development could support 167,500 jobs across the UK by 2038. This would represent an increase of 35,500 jobs compared with a scenario without expansion. London Gatwick added that the Northern Runway programme is expected to contribute £2bn to the economy every year.