Heathrow’s Christmas cargo figures revealed

London’s Heathrow Airport has revealed that 144,000 tonnes of cargo – the equivalent weight of 68 London Eyes – is expected to pass through the hub during the festive season.

This figure is reportedly 3% higher than last year’s cargo volumes during the holiday period.

British citizens are expected to import almost 60 tonnes of chocolate to indulge in over the holidays, as well as 130 tonnes of playing cards to enjoy during festive celebrations.

An analysis by Seabury Consulting revealed that last year, during November and December, cargo passing through Heathrow included: 91,000 kg of children’s toys – the equivalent weight of seven New London Routemaster buses; 446 kg of Christmas lighting – the equivalent weight of approximately 34 male Pembroke Welsh Corgis; 116,000 kg whiskey – the equivalent weight of approximately 5 Stonehenge stones; 4.9m kg of salmon – equal to the weight of 114 Caledonian sleeper trains (CAF Mark 5 model); and 11,000 kg game meat – the equivalent weight of five London black cabs.

Heathrow’s commercial officer, Ross Baker, commented: “Christmas is always a busy time of year for passengers as they travel to be with family and friends, but it’s also when the unseen magic of the holidays comes to life. Right underneath your feet on your next flight will be examples of the best of British Christmas being sent to the rest of the world.”