Subscribe

Tag: airport

Cargo Capacity Boosted to Meet Growing Demand

Posted on by David Priestman

Etihad Cargo, the logistics and cargo division of Etihad Airways, has enhanced its operations to respond to rising customer demand across Greater China. The carrier is increasing its total number of flights between China and other markets from 11 in 2024 to a projected 18 by 2025, reinforcing trade connections between major global regions.

To support this growth, Etihad Cargo will utilize a wet-leased 747 freighter, bolstering freight capacity on high-demand lanes and offering customers enhanced flexibility for shipments to and from key global destinations.

In response to the surging market demand, the airline has introduced three more weekly freighter services to Shenzhen and added two additional flights per week to London. These new routes will significantly improve connectivity between China, Europe, and the Middle East, with expanded capacity for the transport of e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and other time-sensitive goods.

This strategic capacity increase aligns with Etihad Cargo’s broader objective to expand its global footprint and deliver dependable, customer-focused logistics solutions. The airline remains dedicated to providing agile, efficient freight services while advancing Abu Dhabi’s role as a premier global logistics center.

Commenting on the expansion, Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Cargo, said: “Etihad Cargo is continuously investing in network growth and capacity enhancements to support the dynamic needs of global commerce. The added services to Shenzhen and London Stansted reflect our dedication to meeting customer expectations through increased access and stronger trade route connectivity.”

By deepening its footprint in China and strengthening links with Europe, Etihad Cargo is unlocking greater freight capacity to facilitate the smooth flow of goods across international markets.

Read Similar…

Industry Urges Supply Chain Resilience After Heathrow Closure

Cathay Cargo Pioneers Autonomous Electric Tractor

Posted on by David Priestman

Cathay Cargo Terminal has completed the first end-to-end trial of Autonomous Electric Tractor (AET) operations for direct towing from the inside of the terminal to the West Cargo Apron (WCA) at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

The trial involved a fully autonomous electric tow-tractor pulling four cargo dollies into the Cathay Cargo Terminal and driving itself to the correct cargo transfer gate for loading. After loading, the AET drove itself out of the terminal and successfully completed its journey across HKIA to the furthest cargo apron, the WCA, delivering the cargo ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay Cargo flight.

A unique feature of this initiative is the precise docking solution, enabling the AET’s towing dolly chains to automatically align with the transfer deck for seamless Unit Load Device (ULD) loading. Enhanced security features also allow the AET to be digitally checked into and out of the terminal without compromising security.

The project is a collaborative effort between Cathay Cargo Terminal, the Airport Authority Hong Kong, and UISEE, one of China’s leading autonomous driving companies. This breakthrough not only streamlines cargo movement, but also strengthens operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Cathay Cargo Terminal pioneers Autonomous Electric Tractor

Cathay Cargo Terminal Chief Operating Officer Mark Watts said: “This has been an important proof-of-concept to show that AETs are capable of more advanced workflows than we have seen so far for cargo, reducing manual processes and significantly enhancing operational efficiency. This also improves overall cargo flow at the world’s busiest cargo hub and significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with traditional ground service equipment.”

The project is a collaborative effort between Cathay Cargo Terminal, the Airport Authority Hong Kong, and UISEE. The AET drives itself out of the cargo terminal and makes its way to the apron to deliver cargo ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay Cargo flight. In addition to ongoing trials with AETs, Cathay Cargo Terminal is also piloting the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) for its non-electric cargo tractors. HVO is a renewable alternative to fossil-based diesel, with the ability to reduce the lifecycle carbon emissions approximately 80-90%, according to industry data.

Cathay’s Mark Watts added: “HVO is a very important step, but continued electrification is the ultimate vision to help us reduce carbon emissions and pursue Cathay’s digital and sustainability leadership.”

Airport Authority Hong Kong Acting Deputy Director, Airport Operations Wing Yeung said: “This new milestone reinforces HKIA’s leadership in smart logistics and sustainable aviation development, paving the way for further advancements in autonomous vehicle solutions in cargo-handling. The successful deployment of AETs in end-to-end cargo operations reflects the HKIA community’s continuous efforts in the adoption of smart airport initiatives and to reinforce the airport’s position as a global aviation hub.”

Read Similar…

Endangered Bongos Flown to Kenyan Sanctuary

Heathrow Airport Closes after Power Station Fire

Posted on by David Priestman

The recent events at Heathrow Airport have once again underscored the vulnerability of the UK’s logistics network to unexpected disruptions. As one of the country’s busiest transport hubs, any interruption to operations — particularly on the scale caused by a major power outage — has immediate and far-reaching effects. While passenger inconvenience has dominated headlines, the real and lasting impact on freight and supply chains deserves equal attention.

After the pandemic and Brexit, the British International Freight Association says it thought that there was a better understanding of the critical importance of efficient international supply chains. If the initial mainstream media coverage of the incident at Heathrow is anything to go by, clearly that is not the case, with little mention in the news of the huge disruption to UK supply chains.

The fire at a nearby power station which caused a significant power outage across Heathrow airport has resulted in major disruption with all flights cancelled. The airport is to remain shut until midnight.

PML Seafrigo, whose facilities are unaffected by the fire, is extending an offer to those whose  freight is impacted by the situation, providing a collection service from alternative UK airports where imported  goods have been unexpectedly rerouted. In addition, PML Seafrigo is able to ensure the seamless movement of exported goods to alternative London airports, specifically London Gatwick or Stansted, subject to space and availability.

As expected, most reporting has focused on the immediate impact on flights, terminals and passengers. Regrettably, cargo has been largely overlooked, and the impact will be significant on both import and export movements. Supply chains work based on a consistent flow of goods and this has been severely interrupted – for exports the immediate concern will be that airline sheds will fill up rapidly and be unable to accept fresh freight deliveries, which will then affect other parties. For imports, freight will not arrive at or be diverted from its original final destination.

BIFA says that a big concern for its members is that most cargo is carried in the bellyholds of passenger aircraft and when flights to and from LHR are restored there will be a considerable influx in demand by passengers for seats to continue their journeys. Potentially this will restrict the capacity to move cargo.

Read Similar…

Navigating the Supply Chain Maze

Industry Support Reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Posted on by Will Priestman

Panattoni, has announced that its support of the UK Government’s reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport in spring 2026 and the exciting tie up with Munich Airport International GmbH (MAI) as part of the £1.7bn South Yorkshire Airport City initiative to boost the region’s logistics and supply chain infrastructure.

This ambitious project aims to transform the region into a premier logistics and commercial hub, leveraging the airport’s strategic location and extensive connectivity. By integrating high-quality industrial developments with world-class airport operations, South Yorkshire Airport City will attract major national and international businesses, stimulate job creation, and enhance the UK’s trade links. The investment will strengthen Doncaster’s position as a critical node in the UK’s supply chain network, fostering economic resilience and sustainable regional development.

Property developers such as Panattoni are continuing to speculatively develop large-scale projects across the UK to meet demand for industrial and logistics facilities. Panattoni Park Central A1[M], the largest single speculative build currently under construction in the UK, will further supplement industrial growth across the Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire regions.

PANATTONI DONCASTER SHEFFIELD AIRPORT REOPENING

Dan Burn, Head of Development in the Northwest and Yorkshire at Panattoni, said: “The reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport will provide significant opportunities for businesses across Yorkshire and the wider region to expand their operations and access global markets.

“Our nearby developments at Panattoni Doncaster 420 and Panattoni Park Central A1[1] demonstrate our commitment to the region. With excellent transport links, both sites are nationally significant in driving economic growth, and redefining logistics and industrial operations in the region.”

Ros Jones, Mayor of Doncaster, said: “Reopening our airport is my number one priority and today’s announcement is an important day for Doncaster having reached another significant milestone. “This major announcement that I am making today enables us to press ahead with the necessary airport mobilisation activity to see the airport – which I proudly call the people’s airport – to reopen in Spring 2026.”

Read Similar…

Increase in BigBox Take Up in 2024

East Midlands Airport: Freeport Development

Posted on by David Priestman

In a recent announcement, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves highlighted the importance of the East Midlands Freeport development, emphasizing its role in driving economic growth and job creation. She stated: “Economic growth is the number one mission of our Plan for Change. This investment will create thousands of new jobs, strengthen the UK’s position in advanced manufacturing and logistics, and boost the economy.”

East Midlands Airport (EMA) is advancing its Freeport plans with a new industrial logistics and manufacturing park, unlocking $1.3bn (£1bn) of investment. Located south of EMA, the site will offer tax and customs reliefs, attracting investment and fostering growth in life sciences and advanced manufacturing. EMA is seen to be the UK’s most important airport for express air cargo which enables seamless trade between UK businesses and the rest of the world, helping to support the regional and national economy.

A planning application has been submitted, with potential for 2,000 new jobs, £132m annual economic growth, and £9m in business rates. EMA’s strategic location and strong transport links make it the UK’s top express freight airport. Air cargo volumes are projected to grow by 54% by 2043.

EMA’s cargo operations have already attracted businesses in aeronautical, automotive, retail, pharmaceutical, and logistics sectors. This new development will further cement its role in global trade and innovation.

Sustainability is central, with adherence to the UK Green Building Council’s net-zero carbon framework. During construction, carbon emissions will be measured and reduced, and operational buildings will meet EPC A+ energy efficiency standards.

Steve Griffiths, Managing Director of EMA, emphasized the significance of this step, stating: “This is an exciting step forward for growth in and around the airport. Our unrivaled cargo operation continues to act as a catalyst for investment, and we look forward to building on its success.”

Tom Newman-Taylor, CEO of East Midlands Freeport, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the transformative impact of the Freeport’s tax sites: “This is a positive first step in realizing the full potential of the Freeport, creating thousands of jobs and unlocking billions in investment.”

Paul Weston, Regional Head, Prologis UK said: “Our partnership with MAG aims to realise the full potential of this strategic hub for international logistics.

“Our shared vision is to leverage the Freeport status and central location of EMA to create a high-impact gateway that drives economic growth, innovation and employment opportunities across the Midlands. By bringing our expertise in logistics developments to the table, we are confident that our partnership will unlock significant benefits for both the local community and the broader UK economy.”

This development underscores EMA’s critical role in driving economic growth and innovation, positioning it as a key hub for logistics and advanced manufacturing in the UK.

Read Similar…

SELP Purchase Tritax Eurobox Assets

Logistics Industry Support Third Runway at Heathrow

Posted on by Will Priestman

The UK government’s support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport has sparked discussions within the freight and logistics sector. Industry representatives emphasize the importance of expanding cargo capacity to meet growing trade demands. While acknowledging the benefits of increased airport capacity, stakeholders also highlight the need for strategic planning to ensure efficient cargo operations. Key industry figures from the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and FedEx Europe share their perspectives on the potential impact of the expansion on UK trade and supply chains.

Speaking on behalf of its members, Steve Parker, director general of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) said:
“The Government’s backing for a third runway at Heathrow is certainly of interest to BIFA members that offer international logistics services for cargoes moving by air,  and although our members will still be wondering when any spade will hit the ground, they are ready to work with the airport authority on streamlining and improving services.

“Whilst we wait for a third runway, BIFA will focus on the airport’s cargo development. And on behalf of our members, BIFA is already working closely with the airport to support its ambitious plans to deliver a fundamental change to the way cargo operates at the airport. The latest plans and software enhancements were revealed last October. These plans would mean a significant redevelopment of the cargo estate set to commence in the next two to three years, as the airport looks to accommodate rising demand, modernise some ageing first-line cargo handling facilities, and improve cargo flows and efficiency.”

Alun Cornish, Manager Director Ramp and Gateways at FedEx Europe, commented:
Expansion at Heathrow is a step in the right direction for UK growth. To fully realise its potential, it’s crucial that expansion plans include provisions for cargo growth alongside passenger flights. The ability to efficiently import and export goods is essential for UK economic growth, so it’s vital that cargo forms part of the UK’s future airport strategy.

Trade is a cornerstone of our economy, and our research last year revealed that the UK remains a leading exporter to both the EU and other global markets. Increased capacity in UK supply chains would be welcomed and would be a key enabler of the UK’s plans for growth.

Read Similar…

Global Supply Chains Forced to Change Rapidly

Swissport Launches New Cargo Facility at Heathrow Airport

Posted on by Will Priestman

Swissport, a leading global provider of airport ground services and air cargo handling, today announced the launch of a brand-new cargo facility at London Heathrow Airport (LHR). The launch marks Swissport’s significant growth in the cargo sector, following a 17% increase in cargo tonnage in the year to date.

Strengthening its presence at one of the world’s busiest airports, Swissport is fueling its ongoing expansion in the rapidly growing air cargo market, with a launch set to be announced at Gatwick, and expansions planned at East Midlands, Manchester, and Stansted airports.

“Our new facility at Heathrow is a cornerstone of our global air cargo expansion strategy. It not only enhances our service capabilities at a critical global hub but also demonstrates our commitment to investing in infrastructure and technology to meet the growing demands of the air cargo industry.” said Joe Bellfield, Chief Operating Officer of Cargo.

SWISSPORT’S SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT IN CARGO CAPABILITIES AND BUSINESS GROWTH

The move to increase its footprint across the UK follows phenomenal tonnage growth, driven largely by e-commerce imports.

“Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, we have confidence that these market trends will continue. That’s why we’ve made a strategic decision to invest in this part of the business,” says Joe Bellfield.

“Several customers are waiting to join Swissport’s portfolio once we have the space, and we’re thrilled to be expanding at Gatwick, East Midlands, Manchester, and Stansted in the months that follow our opening at Heathrow Airport today.”

Pharmaceuticals and perishable items have also led to an increased demand for specialised handling solutions, and the Heathrow facility includes a Border Inspection Post dedicated to immediate airside evaluation capabilities for importing goods.

“We are confident that this facility will play a key role in driving our continued growth in this important market segment, solidifying our position as a leading global air cargo handler.,” adds Joe Bellfield.

The new facility includes 15,000 square feet of temperature-controlled space, advanced warehouse management systems and real-time tracking capabilities. These advancements will enable Swissport to handle more customers and satisfy additional demand.

Read Similar

Rolls-Royce Supply Chain Issues Strike Again

Auckland Airport expands cargo facility

Posted on by David Priestman

GEODIS, a leading global transport and logistics operator, has announced a strategic move to a new facility at Auckland Airport, following strong and sustained growth in the New Zealand market. The 5700 sqm facility – with its prime location, advanced enterprise-grade systems, and extensive storage space – will offer GEODIS’ expanding client base the capacity needed to ensure seamless end-to-end supply chain support across both local and cross-border markets.

The unprecedented surge in consumer demand brought about by the pandemic, has heightened the need for resilient supply chain strategies, particularly within the healthcare industry, with pharmaceutical companies forced to reinforce their logistical requirements. Keeping these needs in mind, GEODIS’ new site will feature specially designed temperature-controlled areas to facilitate the optimal storage of pharmaceutical products at +15-25 degrees as well as +4 degrees Celsius.

The growing demand will also be addressed by the site’s high productivity storage solution, which consists of two-metre wide aisle racking that affords 5,000 pallet locations. There is a tier one Warehouse Management System (WMS) that offers automated operating systems to support the thriving e-commerce fulfillment business. The purpose-built facility is located at one of Auckland’s most prominent industrial hubs at Auckland Airport with connections to the main arterial routes used for distribution. It will also house GEODIS’ international container freight station (CFS), contract logistics and last mile distribution set-up to enable full-service supply chain management under one roof.

“Significantly, this new facility is in harmony with our commitment to being a strong growth partner to our customers. As GEODIS continues to expand, we will also continue to enhance our infrastructure and processes to align our evolution with our customers’ development ambitions,” said Stuart Asplet, Sub-Regional Managing Director, Pacific & Regional Director Sea Freight, Asia Pacific. “The supply chain industry has certainly been disrupted by the pandemic, yet GEODIS’ passion to stay ahead of the curve has continuously pushed us to deliver industry-leading solutions that add value to our customers’ business goals. Our core belief to make a tangible impact on our clients’ goals, has allowed us to remain one of the fastest-growing logistics operators globally”.

The move further emphasises GEODIS’ focus on the APAC market and follows a series of investments and advancements made in the region over the past few months. The consolidation of the company’s operations from multiple sites to a single site will also boost efficiencies. The logistics provider has signed a long-term lease for the Auckland facility, encouraged by a healthy growth trajectory in the market.

“We’re confident that the facility at Auckland Airport will be a gamechanger for our customers. Features like the increased capacity, temperature control rooms, state-of-the-art technology, and advanced security measures ensure more precise and cost-efficient warehousing,” said Hugh Mackay, Managing Director, New Zealand. “This new site reflects the scale of things to come for our operations in New Zealand. Our laser sharp focus on providing a robust set of solutions and unmatched service to our customers holds the key to strengthening our presence in a competitive marketplace.”

The move will take place in October 2021 and is slated to amplify GEODIS’ offerings to more businesses including key verticals such as pharmaceuticals, retail, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).

Brussels Airport conducts drone trials

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Brussels Airport and skeyes have been testing the operational use of drones at and around the airport this week. In a secure environment, an innovative safety drone is deployed, which can be controlled from a large distance to find out how drones can increase the safety, security and efficiency of airport operations. In addition, a drone detection system is being tested to detect unwanted drones, as these are not allowed in normal circumstances at and around the airport.

Drones and aircraft are not a good combination, which is why drones are prohibited at and around the airport. A stray drone can create very dangerous situations for air traffic. The only exception is the safety drone that Brussels Airport and skeyes are testing in close cooperation. During two test days on 31 March and 1 April the possibilities and operational procedures of such a safety drone have been investigated.

Given the large surface area of the airport, a drone can be a means of quickly gaining a unique perspective of the situation at a particular location on the airport grounds. In cooperation with Citymesh, drone operator and partner for the private 5G network at the airport, a safety drone was tested for the first time at Brussels Airport.

The special feature of this drone is that it can be controlled from a very large distance through the private 5G network at the airport. For this test the Citymesh drone pilot was not on site, but in West Flanders (Bruges). They controlled the drone via 5G “beyond visual line of sight”, which is a first for an airport!

Variety of evaluation activities

There are various activities at the airport for which drones could provide added value. During the test days, it was investigated how the drone can be used for inspection rounds on the grounds and for monitoring the airport area, where the drone can function as remote binoculars in addition to physical inspections.

A second simulation concerns an aircraft incident where a drone can arrive very quickly to get a first impression of the situation and to be able to already pass on important information to the emergency services. A drone could also be used for animal-related inspections, such as for birds or rabbits, at the airport, as these animals can be dangerous to aircraft taking off or landing.

Arnaud Feist, Brussels Airport CEO: “It is important for our airport to continue to focus on innovation. Although drones and aviation do not initially seem like a good combination, this is a new reality, the possibilities of which must be explored. Today, thanks to our private 5G network, we managed to control a drone remotely, which is an innovative first together with our partners. Drones can be additional tools in our operations, and these tests will give us more insight into the possibilities.”

Johan Decuyper, skeyes CEO: “skeyes has been building drone-related expertise for a long time. We often work on real-life test projects. This was a first test in our ‘natural habitat’: an airport environment. These test days have already shown that drones can also be put to very good use here. We want to explore the possibilities as much as possible together with our airport partners. But of course always with our first concern in mind: the safety of the whole of all air traffic.”

Drone detection system in practice

A drone is not allowed in the vicinity of the airport. Signs indicating a “no drone zone” can be found around the airport for the safety of air traffic. Because drones are becoming more and more common, the second objective of the test days was to find out whether drones could be detected in the vicinity of the airport using a combination of various technologies.

This allows for the detection of both cooperative drones, the flight of which is authorised and which share their location, and non-cooperative drones. Several drones will be used during the test to subsequently identify them.

A drone operator must contact the regulator to request their flight in advance. During the test, it is checked whether the flight authorisation data correspond to the flight actually performed. In addition to visual observation by pilots, airport security or air traffic controllers, detection via high-tech systems is the only way of quickly discovering non-authorised flights.

On the drone traffic management platform of SkeyDrone, a subsidiary of skeyes, the data from the drone detections and flight authorisations are compared, processed and visualised. Based on these results, it is now possible to further investigate which technologies can offer the greatest added value.

Safe environment

These tests have been prepared for a long time in advance. Obviously, they must not jeopardise air traffic and they may disrupt regular airport operations as little as possible. The test moments were coordinated with the air traffic, taking into account the weather conditions. Part of the runways were closed off for this purpose. Activities on and around the runways were kept to a minimum so that the drones could always keep enough distance from people, buildings and aircraft. Everything happens in close cooperation between the air traffic controllers in the tower and the Airport Operations Centre of Brussels Airport.

Since the entry into force of the new European legislation on drones, skeyes is responsible for authorising drone flights in the airspace around Belgian airports. Drone pilots who want to fly their drones around an airport have to apply for flight authorisation with skeyes via the DSA (Drone Service Application), a tool especially developed for this purpose by SkeyDrone. Through the DSA application, both the pilot and skeyes can follow the flight in real time. All test flights that have been taking place this week were planned in coordination with the air traffic controllers.

Subscribe

Get notified about New Episodes of our Podcast, New Magazine Issues and stay updated with our Weekly Newsletter.