Swissport started providing freight forwarder handling in Germany. The new service complements Swissport’s existing portfolio of air cargo services for airlines and will now be rolled out globally across the company’s network.

With the launch of forwarder handling, Swissport is expanding its service offerings in the German cargo market. Effective 15 January 2024, Swissport has become JAS’s sole cargo handling agent for Frankfurt Airport (FRA). The two partners have worked on a coordinated implementation to facilitate a smooth transition.

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Swissport first expanded into Forwarder Handling in Austria, where it has offered services in Vienna and Graz since 2010 and 2016. Given consistently strong demand and overwhelmingly positive market response, the new offering will now be integrated into Swissport’s standard service portfolio globally.

“By offering forwarder handling, we are contributing to our customers’ value creation and can also eliminate third-party involvement, which translates directly into time and cost savings for our customers,” says Andreas Behnke, Managing Director ad interim of Swissport Cargo Services Germany and Austria. “Combined with our digitalised processes and tools, the new offer allows for streamlined logistics and efficient freight handling.”

The company is actively developing commercial relationships with cargo forwarders to generate new business. The new services complement the company’s existing forwarder and airline handling services and mark an important next step in the company’s cargo strategy. This enables Swissport to offer comprehensive services that leverage its extensive network of 115 warehouses to provide integrated and seamless solutions for all cargo needs.

“We are pleased to solidify another partnership with Swissport through this new ground services agreement. Given their exceptional service record, particularly in JAS’s Pharma sector, we are confident in Swissport’s ability to deliver the same level of excellence at Frankfurt Airport,” said Matthias Frey, Vice President of Global Airfreight Operations at JAS Worldwide.

Swissport has invested heavily in optimising its cargo service portfolio. The expansion into forwarder handling aligns with the company’s holistic approach to serving the logistics community beyond airlines. Aligned with its M&A agenda, Swissport recently launched the DUS Cargo Services joint venture in collaboration with Düsseldorf Airport, strengthening Swissport’s cargo presence in Germany and reinforcing industry leadership.

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Swissport continues to drive digitalisation in the air cargo business to handle air cargo ever more efficiently and intelligently. The Swissport mobile devices, fully interfaced weighing system, AI-based support tools, cargo kiosks, door management systems, slot booking, and Bluetooth ULD tracking are examples of innovations that are in operation, providing Swissport with the ability to process air freight competitively.