At the end of last year, Kitakyushu Airport, in collaboration with DHL Global Forwarding, the air and ocean freight specialist of DHL Group, completed the transport of semiconductor manufacturing equipment—the largest and technically most demanding cargo operation ever handled by the airport and one that required exceptionally high standards of transport expertise.
Overview of the largest-ever semiconductor manufacturing equipment transport
Item: Semiconductor manufacturing equipment
Weight: Approximately 180 tons
Route: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (Netherlands) → Kitakyushu Airport
Method: Transported via dedicated cargo aircraft (large freighter)
Establishing a handling system that enables the transport of semiconductor manufacturing equipment
To meet regional transport needs, Kitakyushu Airport began efforts in 2023 to import semiconductor manufacturing equipment, led primarily by DHL Global Forwarding Japan Co., Ltd. (DGF) and Korean Air. The airport has worked closely with companies responsible for the ground handling of regular cargo flights to build a robust handling system.
Experienced staff from each organisation collaborated to design and execute detailed strategies to ensure safe and efficient transport—from risk assessment to temperature and humidity control, and vibration mitigation—for the entire journey from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Kitakyushu Airport. These coordinated efforts have helped establish a stable operational framework for handling such shipments.
Integrated collaboration for advanced semiconductor logistics
Karsten Michaelis, CEO, North Asia, DHL Global Forwarding, and President/Representative Director of DHL Global Forwarding Japan, said: “Semiconductors are the backbone of modern technology, and DHL has built a robust framework to support this critical supply chain with precision and expertise. By establishing a dedicated office at Kitakyushu Airport – supported by our Semiconductor Specialist Team and working closely with the Kitakyushu Airport authorities and Korean Air, we have created an integrated structure that combines infrastructure development with seamless operational collaboration. Beyond this project, DHL’s global CapX Qualification Program and standardised processes across locations—including Narita International Airport, Kansai International Airport, and Kitakyushu Airport—ensure consistency, safety, and operational excellence. We are proud to be a part of this milestone and reaffirm our commitment to driving reliability and innovation in semiconductor logistics.”
Initiatives by the Kitakyushu Airport Promotion Council to promote the consolidation of semiconductor-related cargo
The Kitakyushu Airport Promotion Council—comprising Fukuoka Prefecture, Kitakyushu City, and other members—provides subsidies to businesses that transport international air cargo. In addition, the council offers subsidies for transporting semiconductor manufacturing equipment and related items.
