Long-haul air freight specialist European Cargo has announced it will open a base at Cardiff Airport (CWL/EGFF) from the 16th October.
The Bournemouth headquartered carrier will initially operate three flights per week between China and Wales using Passenger to Freight (P2F) converted Airbus A340-600.
European Cargo started life during COVID using ex Virgin Atlantic A340s to fly PPE and COVID tests into the UK through destinations including Cardiff Airport.
Jason Holt, European Cargo’s CEO, said: “We’re delighted to announce this exciting development at Cardiff Airport. As we continue to grow our business expanding outwards from Bournemouth, we see Wales as a fantastic place to invest in. Cardiff Airport has many advantages, including 24-hour operational facilities and easy road access to the motorway network. We look forward to working with the Airport team.”
European Cargo will be looking to increase the three weekly flights to four as soon as possible with a view to expanding operations.
The news is a welcome boost to Cardiff Airport which has struggled to attract passenger airlines and analysts have long seen freight as being the advantage it could have over rival Bristol Airport.