WFS wins tender for an 11,000 sqm cargo warehouse at Heathrow, enhancing capacity and supporting airline growth.
Cargo handler Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) is set to expand its operations at London Heathrow Airport after winning a tender to lease a new 11,000 square metre air cargo warehouse, according to London's Air Cargo News.
Located in the Southampton Road cargo area, the facility will have the capacity to handle over 160,000 tonnes of cargo annually and is scheduled to open in 2027. The contract spans a duration of 20 years.
WFS, which is owned by SATS, plans to implement a four-level pallet and container handling system featuring 220 positions and two elevating transfer vehicles. The warehouse will include dedicated areas for valuable items, pharmaceuticals, perishables, express shipments, AVI, dangerous goods, and outsize cargo such as cars and aero engines.
The expansion is a response to rising demand and highlights Heathrow's strategic importance in UK and global trade. The new facility will not only support growth for existing customers but also provide additional capacity for new airlines.
In 2024, Heathrow handled 1.6 million tonnes of cargo, reflecting a 10 percent year-on-year increase, with a total value of GBP215.6 billion (US$291.07 billion). The airport serves 230 destinations across 85 countries and accounts for over 72 percent of the UK's air cargo by value.
WFS reported a 28 percent increase in volumes at Heathrow during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, driven by new contract wins and organic growth.
Chris Beale, Managing Director UK at WFS, emphasized that the new lease underscores the company's long-term commitment to Heathrow and its airline customers.
Currently, WFS operates eight facilities at Heathrow, covering nearly 44,000 square metres and handling over 350,000 tonnes of cargo annually for 12 major airlines, including new clients Air India and Riyadh Air.
