Swissport returns to French market with EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse cargo operation

Swissport has returned to the French market by establishing a new cargo operation at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse.

The Swissport Cargo Services France operation comprises a 3,000 sq m cargo warehouse, including a 1,000 sq m French customs zone and 2,000 sq m of international handling space for the build-up and breakdown of airline pallets.

Initially, Swissport Cargo Services France will focus on airline cargo handling activities. While operating as an independent entity for the French market, the new operation will work closely with Swissport’s established Basel cargo operation, benefiting from its expertise and Swissport’s global standards in safety, quality and operational excellence, said the handler.

Swissport’s existing operation at Basel has been treated as a Swiss operation, while the new operation is operationally and legally a French entity.

“France is an important aviation market with significant long-term potential for Swissport,” said Bruno Stefani, regional chief executive 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 allows us to build on the strong expertise of our established Basel cargo team while developing a dedicated presence in France,” added Andreas Behnke, head of cargo Switzerland, Italy and France and station manager Basel-Mulhouse at Swissport.

“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 strengthens Swissport’s European cargo network, which forms part of a global network of more than 120 cargo centres.

Worldwide, Swissport handles over 5m tons of airfreight annually, combining global scale and standardised processes with local operational expertise.

The ground handler has announced several major growth developments this month, including entering the Indonesian air cargo market by establishing a joint venture (JV) with Jakarta-based UNEX Aviation Services, and entering the Colombian market through the acquisition of Giraldo Hermanos International (GHI).