Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) has opened a new cargo terminal at Brussels Airport as it aims to future-proof its operations at the air cargo hub.
The 25,000-sqm facility has capacity for 250,000 tonnes and was designed to optimise speed and deliver self-service and real-time information for airlines and freight forwarders.

Marc Claesen, senior vice president – commercial EMEAA at WFS, explained that the latest investment is inspired by Brussel Airport’s ‘commitment to air cargo growth’ and is part of a €100 million investment by the airport in its cargo zone.

“Brussels Airport and its cargo community are very progressive. WFS is taking the leading role in providing the market with a product and digital tools which meet the requirements of modern-day cargo handling, and which gives us the capacity to grow. We believe more airlines will choose to partner with us,” Claesen said.

WFS said the new cargo terminal incorporates a dedicated pharma zone in support of Brussels Airport’s reputation as a pharma air hub centre in Europe, with CEIV Pharma and GDP certifications underway this year.

The cargo facility also has a perishables handling facility and will house a new EU Border Inspection Post. It is fully equipped with state-of-the-art security access controls and cargo screening technologies in line with the cargo handler’s commitment to deliver the highest standards of safety and security.

WFS notes the operations at the new facility will intensify the use of IATA e-freight protocols for seamless freight movements from shipper and through the air freight supply chain, which would help reduce delays and improve shipment efficiency and visibility.

Truck drivers arriving at the building already enjoy kiosk-based, self-service reception points, WFS added, allowing them to stay in their vehicles when completing cargo deliveries and collections, and expediting their assignment to one of the terminal’s 40 cargo gates.

WFS said the new facility will complement its 11,000-square-metre warehouse and office at the airport, which opened in the Brucargo West development zone in 2019.

The ground handler’s clients in Brussels include Asiana Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, IAG Group, and United Airlines.
Last summer, it signed a five-year contract to provide a total handling solution for Air France KLM Martinair Cargo at the airport, covering cargo, mail and trucking and other services to support special products. It also recently won a handling contract with cargo carrier Demavia Airlines.