London Heathrow Airport recorded a strong performance in air cargo throughout 2025, reinforcing its position as the UK’s largest port by value despite ongoing challenges in global supply chains.
In December 2025 alone, Heathrow handled approximately 138,000 metric tonnes of cargo, driven by robust seasonal demand ahead of the festive period. Three peak days – 6, 14 and 20 December – marked the highest daily cargo volumes of the year, highlighting the airport’s critical role in supporting time-sensitive freight flows.
Annual Cargo Volumes Increase Year-on-Year
Across the full year, the total volume of goods and mail moving through Heathrow reached 1.59 million tonnes, representing an increase of 12,600 tonnes compared with 2024. Heathrow said the growth underlines its importance as the UK’s primary gateway for high-value, time-critical and express freight.
Cargo at Heathrow is predominantly transported in the bellyhold of passenger aircraft, benefitting from the airport’s extensive long-haul network and high flight frequency. This connectivity continues to support UK trade, particularly for pharmaceuticals, perishables and express shipments, airport officials said.
Improved Operational Performance Supports Reliability
Operational efficiency also improved during the year, contributing to enhanced cargo reliability. Heathrow reported baggage load rates exceeding 98%, a key performance indicator closely linked to aircraft turnaround efficiency and freight handling performance.