A ‘call for action’ setting out 11 key recommendations for the UK to facilitate the sustainable growth of its economically-vital air freight industry has been presented to the UK Government by Aberdeen Standard Investment’s AIPUT fund (Airport Industrial Property Unit Trust) and Logistics UK, the logistics industry business group.
In February 2021 Logistics UK and AIPUT jointly hosted a policy roundtable to discuss the steps that need to be taken by both Government and the industry to secure a prosperous future for UK air freight, which currently accounts for 40% of UK imports and exports by value. The discussions involved representatives from across the aviation industry including the warehousing sector, airlines, ground handlers, shippers and airports.
Logistics UK and AIPUT are calling for a renewed commitment by Government to work with industry to realise the full potential of the UK airfreight sector.
Nick Smith, Fund Manager at AIPUT commented: ‘We are delighted to partner with Logistics UK in presenting this detailed ‘call for action’, which if acted upon will ensure that the vital UK air freight sector can fulfil its maximum potential in helping UK plc to enhance its position as a major global trading force in the context of our emergence from both Brexit and Covid. Now is an opportune time for the Government to evidence its commitment to the industry and support its long-term sustainable growth.
“Air freight services contribute £7.2 billon to the UK economy and support 151,000 jobs. There is a clear and pressing need for further recognition of the strategic importance of this sector, which plays such a pivotal role in facilitating trade, investment and job creation.”
Elizabeth de Jong, Director of Policy at Logistics UK said: “Support for UK air freight, as it enters a new era outside the European Union and recovers from the global pandemic, is crucial; we must prioritise the steps needed to enhance the role of air freight in a post-Brexit world. Air freight is vital to our economy and we call on the government to work with the industry to realise its full potential as a cornerstone of global Britain.”