Lufthansa Cargo is set to strengthen its handling capabilities in Germany after signing an agreement to acquire 100% of LUG aircargo handling GmbH, a move designed to expand capacity and give the carrier greater flexibility in its home market.
The agreement was signed on 7 September 2026. Completion of the transaction remains subject to the necessary antitrust and regulatory approvals. Once the acquisition is completed, LUG aircargo handling will continue operating independently in the market, with its existing organisational structures and customer relationships remaining unchanged.
The planned acquisition forms part of Lufthansa Cargo’s broader growth strategy. By adding LUG’s facilities to its existing infrastructure, the company aims to reinforce its competitiveness while preparing its handling network for future demand.
The additional capacity will complement Lufthansa Cargo’s own ground handling infrastructure, which is currently being modernised in Germany through the company’s LCCevo programme. The modernisation programme represents an investment of around €600 million.
Lufthansa Cargo said the additional handling capacity will help accommodate future growth while maintaining the reliable, high-quality services expected by its customers.
“In an increasingly volatile market environment, we want to become more flexible, more efficient, and more resilient for our customers,” said Frank Bauer, Chief Operating Officer of Lufthansa Cargo.
“That is why we are making targeted investments in our infrastructure in our home market in Germany to set the course to provide an even better offering for our customers and achieve profitable growth — this is a win-win situation for both companies,” he added.
LUG aircargo handling is currently owned by the Dettmer Group and employs around 400 people. Its German operations include approximately 50,000 sq m of covered warehouse space, in addition to another 18,000 sq m dedicated to offices and infrastructure.
The company brings more than six decades of experience in air cargo handling and serves a broad range of cargo segments. Its customer base includes major international airlines.
The Dettmer Group has welcomed the planned transaction, saying that LUG aircargo handling is well positioned to pursue further growth under Lufthansa Cargo’s ownership.
