New valuable cargo facility opens (17/01/2001)

British Airways World Cargo has opened a new security handling centre for valuable cargo at Heathrow Airport.

Located inside Ascentis, the airline's new £250 million cargo centre, it incorporates the latest security handling systems and processes.

Storage and handling capability is significantly increased in the new facility. Designed to meet the specific requirements of valuable cargo customers, all areas in the strongroom are monitored by CCTV and doors are electronically interlocked. A security airlock is applied for all collections and deliveries.

Additional doors and enhanced handling processes will ensure vehicle-waiting times are kept to a minimum. The unit also incorporates its own secure area for shipment build and break.

Tony Wright, Manager Global Sales & Development, said: " Valuable cargo is an important part of our business. With this investment, we have created an environment to provide the fastest, most reliable and secure service for items that require security handling.

British Airways World Cargo already has an excellent reputation for the quality of its valuable cargo services. Ascentis has given us an opportunity to strengthen our position and provides growth potential. One of our customers has described the new facility as the best airport security handling facility they have ever seen. "