In 2024, , several significant air cargo airport warehousing projects were completed, enhancing global logistics infrastructure. Last year also saw a range of significant announcements made about key investments going forward that will help shape airport warehousing in the years to come.
Among examples of projects that opened in 2024 are a 6,500 sq m multi-tenant air cargo facility at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in the USA which was completed with Amazon Air as the inaugural tenant. This development includes three wide-body aircraft parking positions, with the option to expand to a fourth, bolstering the airport’s cargo handling capabilities.
Elsewhere on the East Coast, Pittsburgh International Airport, USA saw a new 8,000 sq m cargo facility completed, featuring 17 truck loading docks and apron space sufficient for two Boeing 747 freighters. This facility enhances the airport’s capacity to manage increased cargo volumes.
In India, Pune Airport saw a new terminal building inaugurated, encompassing a 600 sq m cargo terminal adjacent to the second terminal. This facility is expected to facilitate international cargo operations, promoting foreign cargo operator engagement and supporting the export of perishable agricultural products.
At Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand, a third runway became fully operational on November 1, 2024, increasing the airport’s capacity from 68 to 94 flights per hour. This expansion supports cargo operations, facilitating increased air traffic and freight handling.
Going forward
In 2024, several major airfreight projects were announced, signalling significant investments in global logistics infrastructure.
In April 2024, Dubai’s ruler approved a substantial expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, involving the construction of a new passenger terminal valued at approximately $34.85 billion. Upon completion, the airport is projected to become the world’s largest, featuring five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, with a capacity to handle up to 260 million passengers annually. This expansion is expected to accommodate increased airfreight operations, with Emirates and Flydubai planning to relocate their operations to the new airport by 2030.
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) approved $400 million in financing to support the development of the Hubei Global Air Cargo Logistics Hub. This project aims to enhance air cargo capacity and promote green development in the region, contributing to the efficiency and sustainability of global airfreight operations.
In October 2024, Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport, Australia reached a significant milestone with the landing of its first test flight, marking progress toward its official opening scheduled for late 2026. The $5.3 billion project includes a Cargo Precinct designed to increase Sydney’s cargo capacity by 33%. The precinct is expected to employ over 19,000 people and facilitate operations for major freight carriers, enhancing the region’s airfreight capabilities.
In August 2024, Adelaide Airport announced its largest land release in over two decades, unveiling 27 hectares (66.7 acres) for the development of the Airport Junction industrial and logistics hub. Valued at approximately $250 million, the project aims to provide direct freight access to international and domestic terminals, creating up to 1,800 jobs and significantly boosting the airport’s freight handling capacity.
Airship adventures
A French-Canadian company, Flying Whales, has announced plans to develop an airship base in Mount Isa as part of its Asia-Pacific expansion. The project, estimated at $50 million, involves the use of LCA60T hybrid airships capable of carrying up to 60 tonnes, aiming to improve logistics in remote regions. The base is expected to be operational by 2028, creating 100 direct jobs and supporting sustainable transport solutions.
