Lufthansa Cargo will expand its reach in southern Germany by launching freighter operations at Munich Airport (MUC) on July 6, 2024.
This is a first, as the hub will now use an A321 cargo plane for a connection to Istanbul Airport twice a week.
This new route offers increased flexibility and capacity to the existing belly network in Munich.
Munich Airport Launch
“We are excited to offer our customers this enhanced service,” said Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo.
“The new freighter link strengthens our global networks and offers businesses in south Germany a reliable, efficient option for air cargo transport.”
“Munich Airport has an ideal infrastructure for reliable and fast cargo movement. This facilitates global trade through this important European hub.”
This launch reflects our commitment in aligning our network with changing customer needs.
Jost Lammers, CEO of Flughafen Munchen GmbH echoed this positive sentiment. “The introduction by Lufthansa Cargo of regular cargo flights from Munich to Istanbul is a significant change for both Bavarian Exporters and Munich Airport.”
The airport’s cargo importance is evident from the above-average growth rate we’ve seen in this year. The presence of Lufthansa Cargo will further cement Munich’s position as an important cargo hub.”
Munich Cargo Hub
The hub of Lufthansa Cargo in Munich is impressively large, covering 38,000 square metres. It includes the CEIV-certified Pharma hub MUC, which is state-of-the art.
This is specifically designed for the optimal storage and handling of temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products.
The extensive RFS road network and this specialized facility allow Lufthansa Cargo, at its Munich hub, to handle a wide range of goods and products.
Previously, cargo movement was primarily dependent on the belly capacity of passenger aircraft such as those operated by Lufthansa Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines, Austrian Airlines, and SunExpress.
This expansion by the airline represents a significant boost to the cargo operations at Munich Airport and strengthens its role as a vital European airfreight center.
Businesses in southern Germany can now trade globally with greater efficiency and reliability thanks to the new freighter services and advanced facilities.
About Lufthansa Cargo AG
In 2023, a revenue of 3.0 billion euro and a performance of 7.5 billion ton kilometers of freight transport were achieved. This makes Lufthansa Cargo one of the leading companies in air freight transport.
Around 4,150 employees work for the company worldwide. Lufthansa Cargo focuses on the airport-to -airport business.
The network consists of around 300 destinations in over 100 countries. It uses both freighter aircraft as well as cargo capacity from passenger planes.
They are operated by Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Discover Airlines, SunExpress, Discover Airlines, and Brussels Airlines also operate trucks. Frankfurt Airport handles the majority of cargo.
In 2023, the B777F fleet was expanded continuously.
The carrier also expanded its short- and mid-haul network with A321 Freighters. Last year, the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Program was also continued.
In 2024, Lufthansa Cargo will equip its B777F fleet successively with Sharkskin Technology, implement additional digital services, and contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions through sustainable logistic solutions.