CARDIFF AIRPORT has received a major boost with the arrival of regular freight services from China.
Long-haul air freight specialist European Cargo began operating three flights per week from Thursday 16th October between China and Cardiff using Passenger to Freight (P2F) converted Airbus A340-600 planes.
There will initially be three flights each week, but there are already plans to increase the number to four, and the company has ambitions of scheduling even more flights in the long term.
European Cargo owns a fleet of 12 aircraft which are capable of non-stop flights over long distances, carrying a maximum of 76 tonnes.
The carrier, based in Bournemouth, began operating in 2020 by using ex Virgin Atlantic A340s to fly PPE and COVID tests into the UK through destinations including Cardiff Airport.
European Cargo said Cardiff Airport’s 24-hour operating model, 230 acres of developable land and closeness to the M4 were factors in its decision to proceed with a major investment at the base.
Cardiff Airport Chief Executive Spencer Birns said: “This is a fantastic and exciting opportunity for the airport and European Cargo.
“There is huge demand for air freighters in the marketplace and this investment in Wales is primarily down to the excellent facilities and teams we have at the airport.
“We’re committed to diversifying our business for the benefit of Wales. We look forward to working with European Cargo to help make their new base a success.”
The announcement is a significant boost to Cardiff Airport, which has struggled to attract passenger airlines, and analysts have cited freight as an advantage it could have over rival Bristol Airport.
European Cargo’s Chief Executive Jason Holt said: “We’re delighted to announce this exciting development at Cardiff Airport. As we continue to grow our business expanding outwards from Bournemouth, we see Wales as a fantastic place to invest in. We look forward to working with the airport team.”
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