Siemens to construct super efficient air cargo centre at London’s Heathrow Airport

Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics (SPPAL) has been commissioned to install an air cargo centre at the international London Heathrow Airport.
International Airlines Group (IAG) issued the contract for IAG’s subsidiary British Airways.
Siemens is equipping a complete new cargo terminal, allowing the airline to profit from a substantial expansion of the existing air cargo capacities and an optimisation of complex cargo processes. The centre will contain with a’ fast-track facility’ – capable of processing particularly urgent air cargo in only 45 minutes.
“With our many years of experience and our in-depth knowledge of air cargo logistics, we will be able to help IAG strengthen their competitive position,” said Michael Reichle, CEO, Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics.
“We are proud to have held our ground for years as a major player in the highly contested air cargo business,” added Sarah Coulson, Head of Strategy and Business Development, IAG Cargo.” Premium solutions such as the ability to process air cargo at short notice will help us to successfully keep ahead of the competition.”
In order to enable fast cargo handling, Siemens has developed a streamlined operational concept which avoids long distances and supports optimal use of the area with a surface measuring just 11,30sqm. Siemens will install a sophisticated system consisting of four elevating transfer vehicles (ETVs) and four transfer vehicles (TVs). The scope of delivery also includes three truck docks for loading and unloading, and four conveyor lines for build-up and breakdown. The air cargo centre with a throughput of 135,000 tons per year will have over 110 positions for unit load devices (ULDs). Siemens will also deliver 54 special cold storage and deep-freeze rooms for perishable goods.