The investment effectively doubles the airport’s cargo infrastructure and consolidates freight operations in a purpose-built zone
Cargo First, the dedicated cargo division of Bournemouth Airport, has announced the completion of major new cargo handling facilities.
There are now three new ICAO Code E aircraft stands, a much larger Customs-bonded cargo operations centre, and a programme of landside works to improve access and truck servicing areas at the Regional & City Airports-owned airport.
The investment effectively doubles the airport’s cargo infrastructure and consolidates freight operations in a purpose-built zone on the northern side of the airfield, offering scope for future growth, said Cargo First. The cargo operation now employs more than 80 staff.
The new location, directly alongside the airport’s 200-acre business park, also provides new opportunities for logistics organisations to benefit from the co-location of landside warehousing.
Steve Gill, managing director of Bournemouth Airport, said: “The completion of these new facilities marks a significant milestone for Bournemouth Airport and Cargo First.
"They not only provide the infrastructure to support our fast-growing cargo business but also reinforce our position as a highly attractive alternative to congested London hubs.
"With record volumes already passing through the airport last year, this investment underlines our ambitions as the UK’s newest import/export air hub.”
Key features of the new facilities include three ICAO Code E parking stands for aircraft up to Airbus A340 size and a 3,000 sq m Customs-bonded warehouse that is double the size of the previous facility and includes a 450m² powered cargo transit system and personnel and cargo screening.
The new facilities also offer improved landside access. There is a 4,000 sq m new paved area delivered within a brownfield site, incorporating improved access, new truck parking bays and an enlarged landside service yard area.
Bournemouth Airport first moved into cargo operations on a significant scale during the pandemic and has since continued to grow its air cargo share.
Cargo First handled a record 31,000 tonnes of freight in the 12 months to March 2025, a 70% increase on the prior year.
Growth has been driven by e-commerce imports and growing exports, with high-value UK-manufactured goods becoming an increasingly important part of the mix.
Iain Edwards, chief operating officer at European Cargo, one of Bournemouth’s principal freight operators, said: “The new facilities are a real boost to our business. Bournemouth Airport offers us the flexibility and speed that are critical in air cargo, and the expansion means we can look forward to handling even more volumes efficiently.
"It’s a huge advantage to operate away from the congestion of the London hubs, while still being able to deliver consignments into the London market faster than if we flew there directly."
