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.
BAA London Stansted is the biggest single site employer in the East of England. It is the UKs third largest airport and currently see's 70,000 people coming through the terminal every day. Even with the current economic downturn and high petrol prices, Stansted continues to invest in the airport and the regions future. Why?
Ashley Riley is the new Head of Public Affairs at BAA Stansted - Ashley has over a decade of senior management experience of public affairs and has worked on such influential national campaigns like Make Poverty History and Jamie Olivers School Dinners. Ashley will be sharing the plans for the future of Stansted, specifically in relation to business and the opportunities those plans will have for members of the SACC.
Always had a question you want to ask about the airport, its work, its plans or its effect on the local community? This is your opportunity to ask! Don't miss this great opportunity, book your place now.
£15.00 Members £25.00 Non Members (prices subject to VAT) 2 full working days notice of cancellation required.
This event is sponsored and hosted by the Manor of Groves Hotel, Golf & Country Club which is set in 150 acres of beautiful rolling Hertfordshire countryside, yet is only 10 miles from Stansted Airport. The main house is linked to the modern part of the building by an eye-catching glass atrium, which accommodates a Parisian influenced Brasserie, lounge and bar area.
Offering 80 well appointed bedrooms feature satellite television, on demand movies, direct dial telephone, broadband internet access, hairdryer, marble bathroom and complimentary refreshments.
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Extensive Conference & Banqueting facilities are offered for up to 500 delegates providing the perfect venue for conferences, seminars and launches.
The stunning architecture and picturesque grounds make the Manor of Groves an ideal wedding venue. The Hotel offers a choice of rooms, plus two outside gazebos, which are licensed for Wedding Ceremonies.
Their 18 hole par 71 championship Golf Course with US sandbedded greens winds its way around the Hotel and provides a true test of golfing ability.
Location : Manor of Groves, High Wych, Sawbridgeworth, CM21 0JU Contact : Julie Budden (01279) 87 00 64
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