Cargo disruptions after Heathrow power outage
A major power outage shut down London Heathrow airport for the entire day on 21 March, following a fire in a power sub-station in Hayes.
While attention focused on passengers, the disruption to airfreight operations was also very severe. With most cargo moved in the bellyhold of passenger flights, both imports and exports were affected. Airline sheds filled up quickly, blocking fresh freight deliveries. Diverted imports may miss their final destinations or face delays. The British International Freight Association (Bifa) warned that longer-term disruption was possible, as flight crews and aircraft are out of position.
Even once flights resume, high passenger demand may limit cargo space. Bifa urges forwarders to maintain close communication with partners as contingency plans are activated. The incident again highlights the fragility of airfreight-dependent supply chains. (ah)