Korean Air Cargo and Swissport join forces to modernize JFK freight terminal with sustainability and automation at the core

(NEWS) ZURICH, Switzerland, 2025-Sep-2 — /Travel PR News/ — Korean Air Cargo has signed a five-year partnership with Swissport to manage and modernize its long-standing freight terminal, Cargo Building 9, at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Effective September 1, 2025, the deal gives Swissport full responsibility for operating, subleasing, and upgrading the 232,500-square-foot facility, with investments in automation, eco-tech infrastructure, and digital innovation aimed at elevating efficiency and sustainability. The upgrades include an extensive overhaul of the ETV system, new temperature-controlled storage, and enhanced logistics processes, which will raise the building’s annual cargo handling capacity from 200,000 to 295,500 tons.

Korean Air Cargo operations will begin with a dedicated team of 80 employees and expand to more than 390 staff as the facility reaches full capacity. Both companies emphasized their shared commitment to operational excellence, transparency, and sustainable practices. Swissport, which has been present at JFK since 1969, is positioning the site as a blueprint for next-generation cargo handling by becoming the first handler at JFK to operate an all-electric fleet for freighter operations. Investments will also extend to biodegradable materials to reduce plastic waste, advanced automation, autonomous technologies, and high-density racking systems to maximize storage and speed. Leaders from both Swissport and Korean Air underscored that the collaboration marks a milestone in transforming JFK into a hub of sustainable and technologically advanced air cargo operations.

Swissport’s expansion at JFK aligns with its wider global growth strategy, exemplified by the recent launch of its new air cargo operations at Auckland Airport. The 8,500-square-metre facility, equipped with direct airside access, advanced screening systems, cold storage for perishables, and digital infrastructure for real-time monitoring, strengthens the company’s logistics presence in New Zealand and across the Asia-Pacific region. By investing in modern infrastructure to meet surging global air freight demand, Swissport is reinforcing its reputation for operational excellence while supporting international trade with greater efficiency and reliability.