Swissport is strengthening its European cargo footprint with the launch of Swissport Cargo Services France at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse, marking the company’s return to the French market.
The new operation is based in the French sector of the binational airport and is supported by a 3,000 m² cargo warehouse designed to provide dedicated handling capacity for airline freight. The facility includes a 1,000 m² French customs zone and a further 2,000 m² of international handling space dedicated to the build-up and breakdown of airline pallets.
Initially, Swissport Cargo Services France will concentrate on airline cargo handling activities. Although the new business will operate as an independent entity serving the French market, it will work closely with Swissport’s established Basel cargo operation. This cooperation will allow the new facility to draw on the existing team’s expertise while applying Swissport’s global standards for safety, quality and operational excellence.
“France is an important aviation market with significant long-term potential for Swissport,” said Bruno Stefani, Regional CEO Switzerland, Italy and France at Swissport. “The launch of Swissport Cargo Services France marks a significant step in strengthening our presence in the country. Beyond cargo, we see opportunities to bring our global expertise in airport ground services and hospitality to the French market and to build strong, long-term partnerships with airlines and airports.”
The new operation is also intended to provide a foundation for future development in France. Andreas Behnke, Head of Cargo Switzerland, Italy and France and Station Manager Basel-Mulhouse at Swissport, said the company would build on the expertise already established by its Basel cargo team while creating a dedicated presence on the French side of the airport.
“The new operation allows us to build on the strong expertise of our established Basel cargo team while developing a dedicated presence in France,” Behnke said. “Our focus is on bringing the same commitment to teamwork, safety and operational excellence to our new operation and providing a strong foundation for its future development.”
The launch further expands Swissport’s European cargo network and adds the binational EuroAirport facility to a global network that now comprises more than 120 cargo centers.
Worldwide, Swissport handles more than five million tonnes of air freight each year. The company combines its global scale and standardized processes with local operational expertise across its cargo network.
