Vienna Airport has reported a remarkable 45% increase in belly cargo volumes on passenger aircraft for the first nine months of 2024, reaching 90,692 tonnes compared to the same period last year.
This growth underscores the pivotal role of passenger flights in driving the airport’s airfreight performance.
Overall, the airport handled 216,360 tonnes of cargo from January to September, a 20% increase year-on-year. Both flown and trucked airfreight contributed to this upward trend, supported by strong market demand and increased capacity.
The third quarter saw a particularly sharp rise, with cargo volumes reaching 75,242 tonnes – a 25% increase compared to the same period in 2023. September alone recorded 18,094 tonnes of airfreight, also up 25% year-on-year.
Expanded flight services have further bolstered the airport’s capacity. Qatar Airways Cargo introduced a weekly service between Vienna and Doha in September, while Hainan Airlines resumed flights to Vienna in May, contributing to the overall growth in belly cargo and total airfreight.
This sustained growth highlights Vienna Airport’s expanding role as a vital hub for global cargo operations.
Julian Jäger, joint chief executive and chief operating officer of Vienna Airport, said: “…with our modern infrastructure and high service quality, we are creating optimal conditions for fast and efficient cargo handling. The increasing number of airlines that have chosen us as a reliable cargo location, and in particular the 45% growth in belly freight, confirm our importance as a key logistics hub between Europe and Asia.”
Michael Zach, senior vice president of ground handling and cargo operations of Vienna Airport, said: “It is very pleasing that we were able to record growth in September for 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 demonstrates the importance of the airport as a strategic hub in the region.
“The strong growth shows that we can respond to the needs of international logistics in a dynamic market environment and act as a reliable partner for cargo customers.
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