With mounting pressure on the larger hub airports, such as Heathrow, freight forwarders have been forced to look around for a new solution.
It seems that regional airports could provide the answer they have been seeking. Regional airports are working out as a viable alternative, particularly with regard to cost-effectiveness and flexibility.
Bournemouth Airport had almost no cargo in April 2020. However, by March 2022, it saw over 20,000 tonnes of throughput. By April 2022, the airport launched its own dedicated air cargo service, and freight volumes continued to increase as a result.
The service is focused on e-commerce, capitalising on Bournemouth’s proximity to London, just 90 minutes by road.
“Overall time from aircraft touchdown to delivery to the London warehouse is significantly shorter than via the major hub airports – all the major air importers and exporters based in and around London are on our doorstep.”
Bob Matharoo, Head of Cargo at Bournemouth Airport
With the sea freight market currently facing major disruption following the Shanghai lockdown and other issues, more freight forwarders are turning to air cargo to fulfil their assignments.
It seems that regional airports could offer a route out of the crisis.