Bournemouth Airport’s dedicated cargo division, Cargo First, has completed its major new cargo handling facilities, representing a step-change in the airport’s cargo capacity.
The project, which forms part of a major investment program underway across the Bournemouth Airport estate by regional and city airport owners, has delivered three new ICAO Code E aircraft stands, a much larger customs cargo operations center and a program of ground works to improve access and truck service areas.
The growing cargo operation now employs more than 80 people, and the investment effectively doubles the airport’s cargo infrastructure and consolidates cargo operations into a purpose-built area on the northern side of the airfield, providing significant scope for future growth.
The new location, directly adjacent to the airport’s 200-acre business park, also provides new opportunities for logistics organizations to benefit from co-located ground storage.
Steve Gill, managing director of Bournemouth Airport, said: “The completion of these new facilities marks a significant milestone for Bournemouth Airport and Cargo First. Not only do they provide the infrastructure to support our rapidly growing cargo business, they 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.”
Cargo First handled a record 31,000 tonnes of cargo in the 12 months to March 2025, placing Bournemouth in eighth place among UK air cargo airports, an increase of 70% on the previous year.
Growth has been driven by the rise of e-commerce imports and rising exports, with high-value UK-made products becoming an increasingly important part of the mix.
Iain Edwards, chief operating officer of European Cargo, one of Bournemouth’s leading cargo operators, said: “The new facility is a real boost for our business. Bournemouth Airport offers us the flexibility and speed that is critical in air cargo, and the expansion means we can expect to handle even more volumes efficiently.
“It is a huge advantage to operate away from the congestion of London hubs and at the same time be able to deliver shipments to the London market faster than if we flew there directly.”
Located just 90 minutes from the London freight corridor, Cargo First has established itself as a disruptor in the UK freight market, offering streamlined handling and faster onward deliveries than the capital’s airports.
Bournemouth Airport is experiencing significant investment from regional and city airport owners, spanning its cargo and passenger facilities. The airport recently received planning consent for a major expansion of its passenger terminal and a new transport interchange.
READ MORE NEWS: Rising e-commerce, exports drive Cargo First to record growth
