Vienna Airport Sees Significant Growth in Belly Freight and Cargo Handling

Vienna Airport has recorded significant growth in its cargo handling operations, continuing an upward trend in the airfreight market. From January to September of the current year, a total of 216,360 tons of cargo were handled, reflecting a 20% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth is a result of an increase in both flown and trucked airfreight, with belly cargo on passenger aircraft showing the most notable growth.

Record Growth in Belly Freight

One of the standout achievements for Vienna Airport has been the 45% increase in belly freight, which reached 90,692 tons during the first nine months of the year. This growth highlights the airport's role as a crucial logistics hub, with passenger aircraft playing an important role in transporting cargo.

Strong Market Demand Drives Cargo Growth

The continued strong demand for airfreight has directly contributed to the increase in tonnage at Vienna Airport. In the third quarter of the year, from July to September, the airport handled 75,242 tons of cargo, marking an increase of over 25% compared to the previous year. This positive trend continued in September, with a 25% rise in airfreight handled, reaching 18,094 tons.

Expansion of Airline Services Boosts Cargo Capacity

A key factor driving the growth in cargo volume has been the increase in flight services and resulting capacity. Qatar Airways Cargo has added a weekly service between Vienna and its Doha hub since September, while Chinese carrier Hainan Airlines resumed operations to Vienna in May. These additional flights have significantly boosted Vienna Airport's cargo handling capacity, further strengthening its position as a major airfreight hub.

A Strategic Logistics Hub Between Europe and Asia

Julian Jäger, joint CEO and COO of Vienna Airport, expressed confidence in the airport’s growing role as a logistics hub. “Vienna Airport continues to expand its position as a central cargo hub. With our modern infrastructure and high service quality, we are creating optimal conditions for fast and efficient cargo handling. The growth in belly freight, particularly the 45% increase, underscores our importance as a key logistics hub between Europe and Asia.”

Dynamic Market Response and Reliable Cargo Operations

Michael Zach, Senior Vice President of Ground Handling & Cargo Operations at Vienna Airport, highlighted the positive results for September. “It is very pleasing that we were able to record growth in both freight-only flights and belly freight on passenger aircraft, as well as trucking. The expansion of connectivity through new flight connections and additional cargo flights shows the importance of the airport as a strategic hub in the region.”

Vienna Airport’s ability to respond to international logistics needs and act as a reliable partner for cargo customers is key to its continued success in a dynamic and competitive market.