Boeing’s new superjumbo, the 747-8 Freighter, touched down on UK soil for the very first time at London Stansted
The state-of-art jet, which flew in direct from Boeing’s factory in Seattle, will be the first of three to be based at the airport by IAG Cargo, the parent company of British Airways and Iberia. The fleet will operate scheduled cargo flights to destinations such as Hong Kong, Atlanta, Houston and Shanghai.
Stansted Airport’s managing director, Nick Barton, said:
“We're delighted IAG Cargo, through its brand British Airways World Cargo, has selected Stansted as their UK base from where its three new generation 747-8F will operate. Stansted is already London’s second busiest cargo airport and third overall in the UK and the introduction of these planes will increase our operational capabilities and provide a boost to businesses in the region looking to expand and exploit new markets and opportunities.
“We have invested millions in upgrading our infrastructure to accommodate the new generation of super jets, and last year we gained official approval to operate the world’s largest aircraft. Today is a major milestone in the history of the airport as we welcome the first 747-8F.
“The arrival of these fantastic new jets not only increases our operational and business capabilities but they also bring significant environmental benefits as they are 30% quieter and produce 16% less emission than the aircraft they replace. This is also very welcome news as we continue to drive down our operational effects on the communities around the airport.”
A water cannon salute performed by the airport’s fire service showered the arrival, and airport staff gathered and welcomed the plane to its new home just before 7.30am Friday morning.
Essex Chambers of Commerce will be delivering the “Meet the Buyers” event for London Stansted Airport in 2010 following 2 successfully delivered events in 2008 & 2009.
The event will be held at Down Hall Country House & Hotel, and run over 2 days, with a Gala dinner to launch the proceedings on Monday 1st March with Guest Speaker Carol Thatcher.
Hosted by London Stansted, this event is now in its ninth successful year, having generated millions of pounds worth of sales in the past.
This event is your opportunity to have pre-arranged meetings with up to 10 of the attending Buyers, attend a procurement seminar, hosted by the London Stansted Head of Supply chain. You also have access to the networking lunch and business exhibition. The appointments with Buyers are on a first come first served basis and are structured so that suppliers will only be granted meetings with Buyers in accordance with the Buyers list of requirements.
You can also apply for a full day pass without appointments with Buyers.
If you would like more information on being a buyer, sponsor, exhibitor or visitor at this event, please contact us now or log on to www.meethebuyersstansted.co.uk.
Location : Down Hall Country House Hotel, Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Hertfordshire, CM22 7AS. Contact : Julie Budden (01279) 87 00 64 or Donata Rio (01206) 765277
Events
