Lufthansa Cargo Invests in Global Supply Chain Link
Lufthansa Cargo is stepping up to secure its role as a vital link in global supply chains with a significant investment in its Frankfurt Airport hub.
The €600m (US$663.6m) "LCCevo" project aims to revolutionise the airfreight hub by 2030, ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of goods for businesses worldwide—all without interrupting daily cargo handling.
In a move that highlights Lufthansa Cargo's commitment to future growth and sustainability, the company has launched a large-scale renovation of its 330,000m² cargo hub.
The project, named "LCCevo," aims to not only modernise but also enhance the efficiency and eco-friendliness of the facility, securing its place as Europe’s leading logistics hub.
During the ground-breaking ceremony, attended by business leaders, government officials, employees and customers, Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo, explained: “Lufthansa Cargo enables global business and connects world markets in a more sustainable way.
"The ‘LCCevo’ project represents our drive for growth and excellence,” he added.
“For our customers, we want to optimise efficiency and quality and make our service even faster and more seamless.
"For our employees, we want to create attractive and future-proof jobs for the next generations in our newly designed ‘Home of Cargo'.”
This massive investment also reaffirms Lufthansa Cargo’s dedication to Frankfurt Airport as a central hub in Europe.
Michael Niggemann, a member of Deutsche Lufthansa AG's Executive Board, adds: “This flagship project makes our cargo business at the Frankfurt hub fit for the future.
"It increases quality and efficiency for customers, creates sustainable jobs for our colleagues and enables even more environmentally friendly ground processes.”
Keeping operations running smoothly
Renovating a bustling 24/7 cargo hub without halting operations is no small task, but Lufthansa Cargo is committed to ensuring uninterrupted service throughout the project.
Dubbed 'open-heart surgery', the renovation will be carried out in phases, ensuring the hub's operations continue seamlessly while modernising key infrastructure.
At the heart of the redevelopment is a new 42-metre high-bay warehouse, which will become the second tallest building at Frankfurt Airport. Covering around 55,000m² in its current phase, the renovation focuses on key areas such as cargo handling facilities, storage, conveyor technology and IT systems.
The LCC has been operational since 1982, functioning as a crucial hub in global airfreight traffic. It plays a key role in connecting industries like automotive, pharmaceuticals and medical technology to global markets, which makes this project vital for the future of global commerce.
Frankfurt Airport: A critical gateway
Frankfurt Airport plays an indispensable role in connecting Europe with the global economy. It is home to Lufthansa Cargo, the airport’s largest cargo carrier and is vital to industries such as automotive and pharmaceuticals.
Hessian Minister of Finance, R. Alexander Lorz, emphasised the broader significance of this investment, stating: “Lufthansa Cargo is sending an important signal for innovation and competitiveness at Frankfurt Airport.”
He adds, “Here in Hesse, where the automotive sector, the pharmaceutical industry and medical technology play a central role, the connection provided by Lufthansa Cargo is an indispensable gateway to the global market.”
The airfreight sector's importance has become even more apparent in recent years.
Leading in sustainability
Beyond its operational efficiency and strategic importance, Lufthansa Cargo is also focused on becoming the world's most environmentally friendly cargo airline.
The company has already made strides in this area, including expanding its B777F fleet and integrating A321 freighters into its network. It’s also working on several sustainability initiatives, such as the continued use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the introduction of Sharkskin technology to reduce CO2 emissions.
With its global presence and forward-thinking approach, Lufthansa Cargo transported 7.5 billion freight tonne-kilometres in 2023, generating €3bn in revenue.
The modernisation project is a testament to the company’s focus on innovation, sustainability and maintaining its position as a leader in the airfreight sector.
Lufthansa Cargo's bold investment in the LCCevo project will not only secure its role as a global logistics leader but also ensure that Frankfurt Airport remains a key hub for years to come.
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