Brussels Airport, US partners sign MoU for pharma air cargo link
Agreement sets standardised processes and boosts transatlantic pharma flows between Belgium and Virginia hubs
Brussels Airport has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with United Airlines and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership to create a dedicated pharmaceutical air cargo corridor with Washington Dulles International Airport. The agreement aims to establish aligned processes and a standardised flow of pharma shipments between the two airports, strengthening transatlantic supply chains.
The partnership is designed to enhance collaboration between the Belgian and Virginian life sciences ecosystems, building on Brussels Airport’s role as a key pharma hub in Europe and Virginia’s growing position as a pharmaceutical manufacturing centre in the United States. United Airlines will act as the primary carrier on this route, currently operating a daily flight that mainly transports pharmaceuticals and medical supplies.
The agreement focuses on creating standardised and optimised cargo processes for pharmaceutical and life science products, supported by Brussels Airport’s infrastructure and expertise. By sharing best practices and improving coordination, the partners aim to increase efficiency and reliability in pharma logistics between both regions.
Belgium remains a major player in global pharmaceutical trade, ranking as the world’s fourth-largest exporter of pharmaceutical products. Brussels Airport has developed significant expertise in this segment, becoming the first airport globally where the entire cargo community achieved CEIV Pharma certification in 2014, and offering the largest surface of temperature-controlled storage capacity in Europe.
At the same time, Virginia’s pharmaceutical sector is expanding, driven by new investments from biopharmaceutical companies. This growth is creating opportunities for increased transatlantic air cargo flows and strengthening the region’s role as a key manufacturing hub in the US.
Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport, said the agreement will create a reliable pharma corridor with Washington Dulles, highlighting the importance of strong partnerships and knowledge-sharing to improve efficiency and support supply chain development.
Jason El Koubi, President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, noted that international connectivity is vital for supporting the growth of Virginia’s manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries, adding that the collaboration will help build more resilient supply chains and expand the state’s reach across Europe.
Chris Busch, Vice President of United Cargo Americas, said cargo remains an important contributor to the airline’s revenue and profitability, with the ability to carry freight on passenger aircraft supporting the overall success of its network.
