Heathrow unveils new cargo efficiency measures at Air Cargo Europe 2025
Heathrow selects BT’s CCS-UK system to streamline cargo traffic, cut congestion, and boost efficiency, announced today in Munich.
James Golding - Head of Cargo and Airline Partnerships at Heathrow
Heathrow Airport has announced a new initiative to enhance cargo operations efficiency, selecting BT’s CCS-UK Advanced Information System (AIS) to manage landside traffic flows. The announcement was made today at Transport Logistics and Air Cargo Europe 2025 in Munich.
The move follows a comprehensive review process involving Heathrow’s newly established Cargo Community Steering Committee, which includes representatives from across the cargo supply chain—hauliers, freight forwarders, ground handlers, airlines, and property firms. The committee selected BT’s AIS for its slot booking solution, aimed at streamlining vehicle movements at the UK’s busiest port by value.
Heathrow’s cargo operations are central to UK trade, with over 72% of the country’s air cargo by value passing through the airport. In 2024 alone, Heathrow facilitated the import and export of £215.6 billion worth of goods, totaling more than 1.58 million tonnes. Almost 95% of this cargo was transported in the belly hold of passenger aircraft.
James Golding and Magdalena Deitsche announcing the launch of Heathrow's Cargo Community Steering Committee
The implementation of AIS is expected to bring significant improvements to landside logistics. By enabling better planning of cargo vehicle arrivals and departures, the system is set to reduce waiting times, ease congestion, and support Heathrow’s sustainability objectives under its Heathrow 2.0 strategy.
In parallel, Heathrow is trialling a new landside truck parking facility designed to provide secure waiting areas and welfare facilities for drivers arriving from long distances. This measure aims to improve the driver experience while further easing pressure on the main cargo estate.
The selection of BT’s AIS reflects the supplier’s operational expertise and familiarity with Heathrow’s geography and customs systems. The initiative is also backed by the airport’s Landside Congestion Working Group, which includes broader representation from the cargo community.
Data remains a key focus of Heathrow’s cargo strategy. The airport will continue its partnerships with data providers Nallian and WorldACD to support performance monitoring and informed decision-making.
James Golding, Head of Cargo and Airline Partnerships at Heathrow, said: “Together, our new approach to engagement across our cargo community, the implementation of AIS, our truck parking facility trial, and data-led focus will ensure we continue growing Heathrow’s cargo proposition to be fit for the future.”
With these changes, Heathrow aims to further strengthen its role as a leading global hub for air cargo while enhancing service for all stakeholders involved.
Rajarshi is an editorial professional with nearly a decade of experience in writing content for print and online publications. He has hosted numerous entrepreneurship events and moderated sessions at various events, including Flower Logistics Africa. He has previously worked with reputable organizations such as YourStory, YouGov, Inc42, and Sportskeeda and has catered to a diverse range of clients, including Google, PhonePe, the Karnataka State Government, and the Rajasthan State Government. In addition to writing, he enjoys watching films, cooking, and exploring offbeat locations in India.
