Cardiff Airport has been boosted with freight operator European Cargo confirming it is establishing a new base. The operation, which will launch next week, will provide a regular freight service from the Welsh Government-owned airport to China.
There will initially be three weekly flights before increasing to four, with the ambition for even more flights. The base will utilise a dedicated large Airbus aircraft.
The investment is creating 25 jobs. Each flight is expected to carry around 70 tonnes of goods. Based on four flights a week European Cargo said this would see around 1,000 tonnes a month. With more flights added overtime that level could double.
European Cargo said the service would start with more inbound goods from China, but the aim is to see more exports flown into China from Cardiff Airport.
As part of its diversification strategy, and reducing its dependence on air passenger related income, the airport has identified freight and aviation maintenance repair and overhaul activities as having significant growth potential. European Cargo said the airport's 24-operating model, 230 acres of developable land and proximity to the M4, were factors in its investment decision.
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Its chief executive Spencer Birns said: “This is a fantastic and exciting opportunity for the airport and European Cargo. There is huge demand for air freighters in the marketplace and this investment in Wales is primarily down to the excellent facilities and teams we have at the airport. We’re committed to diversifying our business for the benefit of Wales. We look forward to working with European Cargo to help make their new base a success.”
European Cargo is the Ƶ’s largest widebody cargo aircraft operator. Its investment in Cardiff will create its second Ƶ base alongside Bournemouth.
European Cargo's chief executive, Jason Holt, said: “We’re delighted to announce this exciting development at Cardiff Airport. As we continue to grow our business expanding outwards from Bournemouth, we see Wales as a fantastic place to invest in. Cardiff Airport has many advantages, including 24-hour operational facilities and easy road access to the motorway network. We look forward to working with the airport team."
