London Heathrow Airport recorded a 5.4% year-on-year increase in cargo volumes in September, handling 131,326 tonnes as growth across Asia-Pacific and North American markets offset a sharp decline in Middle East traffic.
The latest figures from the UK’s largest hub by cargo value come as debate continues over plans for a third runway, which Heathrow says could increase export capacity by up to 50% and strengthen the country’s international trade connections.
Cargo volumes increased across several major markets during September. Asia-Pacific traffic rose 13.3% year on year to 36,896 tonnes, while North American volumes increased 9.4% to 54,825 tonnes.
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By contrast, cargo moving to and from the Middle East fell 11.3% to 18,443 tonnes. Volumes from the European Union rose 1.6% to 5,774 tonnes, while non-EU European traffic declined 0.6% to 3,509 tonnes.
For the first nine months of 2026, Heathrow handled approximately 1.19 million tonnes of cargo, up 1.6% compared with the same period last year.
Third runway could boost export capacity
The monthly cargo figures come amid renewed discussion over Heathrow’s proposed third runway and the airport’s role in supporting British exports.
Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye said additional airport capacity was important to the UK’s ability to compete in international markets, arguing that improved connectivity would support businesses, supply chains and economic growth.
The airport estimates that expansion could unlock more than 100,000 jobs, attract £33 billion in private investment and increase export capacity by up to 50%. These are projected benefits associated with the proposed development rather than confirmed outcomes.
Woldbye said expansion would create opportunities for additional airlines and destinations, while improving connections for businesses across the UK.
Heathrow handled £293 billion worth of goods in 2025, representing more than a quarter of UK trade by value, according to figures cited in the airport expansion debate.
Planning process remains under way
The UK government has advanced the policy framework for Heathrow expansion, with the proposed third runway intended to increase capacity at an airport that operates close to its existing limits.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has said the government’s approach is intended to support economic growth and additional aviation capacity while addressing legal, environmental and climate obligations.
However, the project has not yet received final planning approval. Heathrow is preparing its development application, with a public consultation scheduled to run from 27 October to 22 December 2026. The airport has identified 2029 as its target for securing planning permission.
The expansion proposal must address a range of issues, including aircraft noise, local air quality, surface transport and the UK’s climate commitments.
For the air cargo sector, additional runway capacity could provide more scope for freight movements, improve access to international markets and create opportunities for new routes. The extent of any benefits will depend on the final design, planning decisions and delivery of the proposed infrastructure.
Heathrow’s September results nevertheless underline the importance of the airport to UK trade, with continued growth in Asia-Pacific and North American cargo flows helping to offset weakness in other markets.
