Emirates SkyCargo Boosts UK Exports by 11% Amid Rising Demand for Aerospace, Pharmaceuticals, and Premium Food Products
Dubai/London: Emirates SkyCargo has successfully transported over 57,000 tonnes of British exports during the financial year 2025-26, reflecting an 11% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores a rising international demand for British goods, particularly in key sectors such as aerospace, life sciences, and perishables.
The cargo division of Emirates reported a 7% increase in UK exports from April to June 2026 compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. This upward trend is attributed to significant advancements in various sectors, including aerospace components and pharmaceuticals.
Khawla Abdulla, Vice President Cargo Commercial Europe at Emirates SkyCargo, emphasized the critical role of efficient logistics networks in facilitating international trade. She noted that the growth in UK exports highlights the necessity for fast and reliable logistics solutions. Abdulla stated that by connecting the UK’s regional production centers to their expanding global network via Dubai, Emirates SkyCargo is enhancing trade flows across diverse industries.
Emirates SkyCargo currently operates over 140 weekly flights from eight UK gateways, including Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle, and Stansted.
Aerospace Exports Soar
The UK maintains a prominent position in aerospace innovation, with Emirates SkyCargo reporting a significant increase in the transport of aviation components. From January to June 2026, the carrier moved more than 570 tonnes of aircraft parts to destinations across Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East.
The specialized Aircraft on Ground (AOG) logistics service experienced a remarkable growth of over 300% year-on-year, reflecting the heightened demand for the rapid transportation of essential aviation equipment. Additionally, the carrier facilitated the export of high-value technology infrastructure, including data center equipment and server racks, primarily sourced from manufacturing hubs in Manchester and London.
Strong Demand for Pharmaceuticals
The life sciences sector has emerged as another vital contributor to the growth of UK exports. In the first half of 2026, Emirates SkyCargo transported over 1,600 tonnes of pharmaceutical products, including medicines, biologics, and healthcare items. The carrier also managed the export of more than 26 tonnes of clinical trial medications during the same period.
Newcastle has established itself as a key regional gateway for pharmaceutical exports, providing essential time- and temperature-sensitive logistics services to support life sciences manufacturers in northeast England.
British Food Exports Remain in Demand
Emirates SkyCargo has also recorded robust demand for British food and agricultural products. In the first half of 2026, the carrier facilitated the export of over 1,500 tonnes of Scottish shellfish and more than 1,200 tonnes of smoked salmon to international markets. Glasgow and Edinburgh have played crucial roles in supporting seafood exports, enabling producers to reach overseas markets swiftly while maintaining product freshness.
The UAE has emerged as a significant destination for British food exports, with over 1,000 tonnes transported from the UK during this period. This volume is equivalent to approximately ten fully loaded Boeing 777 freighter flights. Notable products shipped to Dubai included 250 tonnes of strawberries and over 150 tonnes of cheese.
Supporting Wider Industries
Beyond aerospace, healthcare, and food exports, Emirates SkyCargo has also facilitated the transport of premium British-built automobiles, high-value technology equipment, and works of art destined for museums and private collections worldwide. The Emirates Courier Express service is aiding UK fashion retailers, manufacturers, and consumer goods businesses in reaching international customers through effective cross-border delivery solutions.
Commitment to Wildlife Protection
In addition to its commercial operations, Emirates SkyCargo has reaffirmed its commitment to wildlife conservation initiatives. The carrier recently collaborated with the British charity Dogs 4 Wildlife to transport two specially trained conservation dogs from the UK to Zimbabwe’s Matusadona National Park. These dogs are assisting rangers in efforts to combat illegal poaching. Emirates is a founding signatory of the Buckingham Palace Declaration and a member of the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce.
Fleet Expansion
Emirates SkyCargo is actively expanding its fleet to accommodate the growing demand for air cargo services. Since March 2026, the carrier has received six new Boeing 777-F freighters and its first Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighter. An additional four Boeing 777-F aircraft and a second converted freighter are expected to join the fleet before the end of 2026.
Source: www.emirates247.com
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-08-03 13:00:00 • By the Editorial Desk
