Swissport launches next-gen cargo terminal at Shanghai Pudong Airport

Swissport International has officially entered the Chinese market by securing a landmark agreement to manage and jointly operate the new Digital & Intelligent International Cargo Terminal at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, in partnership with Smargo, a joint venture between AVINEX Logistics and China Eastern Airlines Logistics. The move marks Swissport’s flagship operation in Asia and a key milestone in its global air cargo strategy.

The signing ceremony took place on 21 October, supported by Shanghai Airport Authority and China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited. Swissport, which operates at nearly 300 airports across 45 countries and handles five million tons of cargo annually, brings extensive global experience to Shanghai, the world’s second-largest air cargo hub.

Warwick Brady, President & CEO of Swissport International, said the agreement allows Chinese exporters to reach international markets up to two days faster through specialised e-commerce handling. He added that the partnership with AVINEX Logistics and China Eastern Airlines Logistics will create efficient trade pathways and represents the beginning of Swissport’s long-term commitment to China’s aviation future.

Brad Moore, CEO APAC at Swissport International, described the new facility as a cornerstone of the company’s cargo strategy in Asia. He highlighted that the terminal will strengthen regional supply chains, enhance Swissport’s presence in China, and serve as a vital connection point for trade across the Asia-Pacific region.

The 222,000-square-metre facility, located in the West Cargo Area of Pudong Airport, represents an investment of 1.56 billion yuan (approximately USD 215 million). Scheduled to become operational in late 2025, it is designed to handle between 600,000 and 1.2 million tons of international cargo annually. The terminal features an AI-driven warehouse management system with 99.5% scheduling accuracy, 94 autonomous vehicles, and automated processes that reduce errors and dwell times while providing real-time cargo visibility.

The facility also includes 15,000 square metres of temperature-controlled space, including a 200-square-metre ultra-deep freeze chamber capable of storing 1,500 tons of temperature-sensitive cargo. It supports pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biomedical shipments and aims to achieve GDP and CEIV Pharma certifications.

Swissport’s global e-commerce network provides Chinese exporters with seamless end-to-end handling to key markets, including hubs in New York, Liège, Brussels, Basel, and Milan. The Shanghai terminal will feature four high-speed automated sorting systems processing 3,500 parcels per hour, enabling up to 40% faster delivery of Chinese exports.

The new terminal strengthens Shanghai Pudong’s position as a global air cargo hub, which currently handles around four million tons annually, with projected growth of 8–10% per year. Swissport plans to explore additional cargo opportunities in China, creating a network of specialised operations across the country.

The Digital & Intelligent International Cargo Terminal at Pudong Airport is set to become one of the world’s most advanced air cargo facilities, reinforcing Swissport’s position as a leading partner for premium air cargo services worldwide.