The European airfreight market is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by the rise of e-commerce, increasing demand for perishables, and geopolitical shifts. Regional hubs are positioning themselves to address these changes, leveraging strategic advantages, infrastructure enhancements, and innovative technologies to secure their place in the future of logistics.
Ostend-Bruges Airport’s (OST) location in Western Europe provides seamless access to the UK, Flanders, Northern France, and the Southern Netherlands. Proximity to major ports makes OST an ideal logistics hub, especially amid demand for alternative gateways to the UK.
“As Flanders is the economic heart of Belgium, OST is playing a key role in the future growth of air cargo,” Eric Dumas, OST’s CEO, stated.
“We actively engage with e-commerce operators and participate in specialised trade fairs to attract new business, while also maintaining our focus on perishables, general, and urgent freight to ensure a diversified and resilient service offering. These strategies, combined with our efficient 24/7 operational capabilities, position OST as a key hub for expedited delivery in Europe and beyond.”
Changing trade
Geopolitical events have reshaped trade routes, emphasising the need for reliable and flexible hubs to facilitate cargo redirection and ensure supply chain continuity.
Moreover, regional airports are frequently used for humanitarian aid flights, such as those organised by Doctors Without Borders or the European Union, which, in 2024, was critical amid conflicts such as those in Gaza and Ukraine.
“To handle increasing cargo volumes, OST has partnered with Versluys Logistics to develop a state-of-the-art Cargo Village. This new logistics area on a dedicated apron for cargo includes modern warehouses designed to meet the needs of all kinds of cargo,” Dumas outlined.
“The first phase, completed in 2024, includes a 16,000 sq m warehouse tailored for its end customer. By 2030, OST aims to manage 200,000 tonnes of air cargo annually, cementing its status as a premier logistics hub.”
Perishable products
Specialisation in handling perishables, such as fruits, vegetables, pharma, etc, has become a core focus for carriers and their hubs, with OST among those to enhance operations through advanced cool chain facilities that maintain the integrity of temperature-sensitive cargo.
“With a partnership with Egyptair Cargo that has lasted over 25 years, we have consistently upheld the highest standards. The new Cargo Village at OST will further enhance services for perishables, ensuring seamless and reliable handling for all temperature-sensitive goods next to e-commerce and general cargo facilities,” Dumas explained.
Modern focus
Amid an industry aim to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, airports are playing a key role through immediate actions, such as embracing electrification and seeking to cut emissions through other means.
“Partnering with EnergyVision, we are installing 60,000 solar panels, covering an area equivalent to 60 football fields. This solar park, the second largest in Belgium, will be fully operational by 2026, producing 37,000 MWh annually,” Dumas explained.
Likewise, digital developments have become critical for efficiency and greener operations, such as the implementation of the OST Cloud in 2022. The digital logistics platform that streamlines cargo handling, enhances real-time tracking, and limits the loss of time and paperwork for all partners.
“Ongoing development of the OST Cloud will further optimise operations, ensuring transparency, reduced processing times, and a superior customer experience,” Dumas highlighted.
“Hubs like OST are also preparing for the future of autonomous technologies, including drones. Next to the airport’s premises, the VIVES University operates a new Drone Dock test and research facility, making OST a focal point for innovation in drone operations.”
Future-ready
OST received a new environmental permit from the Flemish Government in October 2024, supporting the expansion of air cargo activities. The QC-based quota system for night flights, which is introduced in the new permit, provides us with the flexibility to further expand nighttime operations, particularly for modern, quieter aircraft. Such measures ensure compliance while enhancing operational competitiveness.
Ostend-Bruges Airport’s proximity to the Eurotunnel, just 90 km away, ensures direct and rapid access to the UK, making OST the fastest UK-accessible airport outside of the UK. This connectivity provides unparalleled efficiency and flexibility for airfreight operators looking for seamless logistics solutions. “OST is located in the vicinity of multiple major seaports and is exploring possibilities for intermodal connectivity linking sea and air. This collaboration enhances our ability to offer comprehensive intermodal solutions, combining air, rail, road, and sea transport to meet the growing demands of modern supply chains with reliability and cost-effectiveness,” Dumas added.
