Airport seals ‘milestone’ freight deal

A North East airport has secured a “transformational” long-haul cargo agreement.

Teesside International Airport has struck a deal with UK-based global carrier European Cargo to establish an operational base at Teesside Airport Business Park. 

Bosses say the multi-million-pound investment will see five weekly freight flights launch to China from this month.

Providing capacity to transport up to 375 tonnes of cargo each week, they add the route will create faster and more direct export routes for UK manufacturers and businesses. 

Flights will operate using European Cargo’s Airbus A340-600 long-haul freighters, each capable of carrying up to 76 metric tonnes – the equivalent of 12 adult African elephants.

Phil Forster, airport managing director, said: “This is a transformational agreement for our airport and a further major milestone in delivering on our ambition to establish Teesside as a leading UK centre for the aviation and logistics industry.

“Securing a new freight base and direct links to China is a pivotal moment that significantly strengthens our commercial offering and demonstrates the confidence global operators have in what we are building here. 

“The impact of this deal will be substantial - not only in boosting cargo operations and revenue, but in firmly positioning the airport as a strategic location for aviation, freight and future investment. 

“It underlines our ambition to develop a highly commercially successful airport that plays an essential role in driving the region’s economic future.”

Iain Edwards, chief operating officer of European Cargo, added: “We are incredibly pleased to establish this new operational base at Teesside International Airport, which marks a significant step forward in our mission to connect UK businesses with global markets. 

“By launching five weekly flights to a key strategic trade hub, we are providing 375 tonnes of much-needed weekly capacity and offering a faster, more reliable export route for manufacturers across the North of England.

“Our investment in Teesside reflects our confidence in the region’s infrastructure and its potential as a premier logistics gateway. 

“We are proud that this expansion will drive local job creation and provide a meaningful boost to the regional economy, while further cementing Teesside’s status as a world-class centre for air freight and international trade.”

The deal adds to a series of recent private sector investments at the airport, including a £13.5 million aircraft maintenance facility by Willis Aviation Services, two aircraft painting facilities operated by Airbourne Colours and a new £7 million hangar built by aerospace firm Draken.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “This is a hugely significant announcement for Teesside Airport and for our wider local economy.

“The decision by European Cargo to establish a new base here and launch dedicated freight flights is a clear vote of confidence in the airport’s future and in our region as a place to do business.”

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