WFS wins the contract to operate Oslo Airport seafood centre

Cargo handler Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) has won the contract to operate the new seafood centre at Oslo Airport being built to cater for rising demand for perishable exports from the region.
The Seafood Center will handle up to 250,000 tons of seafood annually in a facility designed to meet "industry requirements for cool chain logistics and innovation".
In 2017, Oslo Airport was the fastest growing cargo airport in Europe with a 36% year-on-year increase to 185,000 tons, of which 90,000 tons were seafood.
Avinor Oslo Airport director of cargo Martin Langaas said: "We are confident in WFS’ experience in perishable cargo and their commitment to this project.
"This is a unique opportunity to define the future of cool chain logistics for seafood as air cargo. The Seafood Center at Oslo Airport will increase the competitiveness of Norwegian Seafood globally and industrialise the handling.
"With an experienced international handler as WFS, we believe Oslo Airport will increase its competitive advantage as the preferred cargo hub in Northern Europe."
In 2018, Norwegian Seafood as Air cargo is expected to reach some 230,000 tons, although not all of this will be transported through Oslo.
The airport is the largest freighter airport in Northern Europe with 14 cargo airlines calling the airport weekly and more are being added as they look to capitalise on the growth in seafood demand.
Most recently, Ethiopian confirmed the start of a freighter services to China from the hub.
WFS executive vice president Europe, Middle East and Africa John Batten said: "As one of the world leading cargo handlers globally, we are excited to expand our network into Norway and Oslo Airport.
"We look forward to open a dedicated facility at Oslo Airport that is fully adapted to the future needs of the Seafood industry.
"Our terminal will be a game changer in the handling of seafood as air cargo and be an important part of ensuring the future growth of one of Norway’s most important industries."
Construction of the terminal is expected to commence in April 2019, with an opening of the terminal in 2021.
Read more perishables logistics news
Sign up to receive Air Cargo News direct to your inbox for free