IAG Cargo has restarted its London Heathrow to Sydney route for the first time since early 2020, as Australia reopened its borders to vaccinated passengers all over the world.

Starting 27 March, IAG Cargo will utilise a B787-9 widebody aircraft with the capacity to transport up to 13 tonnes of cargo (10 compatible pallets) on a daily rotation. The route will travel via Singapore. 

IAG Cargo said it started taking bookings on 15 March. Popular items typically exported from the region include vegetables and fresh fruits such as melons and mangoes. The service will also facilitate transportation of electronics, luxury goods and cosmetics into the region.

“We are delighted to see Australia reopen its borders to travellers and in doing so, the re-establishment of an important trade link between Australia, the UK and the rest of the world,” said Rob Wiemerink, regional commercial manager for Asia Pacific and Middle East at IAG Cargo.  

“The return of these flights will be especially welcomed by exporters and importers in the region.”

The UK and Australian government signed a new trade deal in December 2021, which removes tariffs on UK exports and is designed to unlock billions of pounds worth of additional trade.