Munich Airport stands out as the sole German airport to experience growth in freight transportation, reaching 90% of its pre-pandemic volumes from 2019.
Data released by the German Airports Association revealed that Munich Airport achieved a notable year-on-year increase of 6.6%, handling 284,000 tonnes of cargo in 2023, while total volumes across Germany declined by 7.1%.
The surge in freight can be attributed significantly to belly cargo, which saw an 11% increase at Munich Airport.
The resumption of direct connections to China, the launch of a new route to Bangalore in southern India, and the introduction of four weekly flights to Taipei contributed to this growth, particularly benefiting Bavarian export industries.
In 2024, Munich Airport continued its upward trajectory in freight volumes, with increases of 6.5% in January and 10.8% in February compared to the previous year.
Overall, the airport’s freight volume has nearly returned to its pre-pandemic level, standing at almost 90%.
To meet the growing demand, freight capacity is set to expand further this year, with new routes to Seattle, Johannesburg, and Vietnam, along with additional flights to Beijing and Osaka.
These developments offer industrial and logistics companies in the airport’s service area enhanced opportunities for direct cargo transportation via Munich.
Munich Airport’s cargo area boasts efficient infrastructure, resulting in fast turnaround times and quick transport of goods to aircraft due to short distances.
Additionally, DHL Express plans to inaugurate a new freight handling building at the airport during the European summer, further enhancing cargo operations.
With ample space for future expansion in the cargo area, Munich Airport remains well-positioned to accommodate increasing freight demands.
