Brussels Airport posts double-digit growth in cargo traffic in May

June 13, 2018: Brussels Airport, major European gateway, has seen 15.9 percent rise in freight transport in May; the strongest growth recorded these past few months. Flown cargo increased sharply (+11.3 percent) compared to May of last year. This increase is evident in all segments, including the full-freighter segment. Indeed, after a decline that began twelve months ago due to stricter noise standards in the Brussels Region, the full-freighter segment is recovering slightly (+1.4 percent), with particularly good performance from most carriers and from the new route to Latin America.

Due to the new routes that have been launched in recent months in the long-haul segment, belly cargo grew sharply (+30.1 percent), informs the airport in a press release.

Unlike in recent months, growth is mainly driven by imports (+ 15 percent. This is largely due to imports from Asia and Latin America (Latam flights). Exports are also increasing, but more modestly so - by 3 percent - also thanks to flights to Latin America.

Compared to May of last year, trucked cargo is reaching record figures (+32.1 percent). Imports and exports have increased by 54 percent and 11 percent respectively. The significant growth in imports comes mainly from Asia and North America. Exports to Africa are doing well after a loss of capacity in the past.

On the other hand, passenger traffic saw 2.8 percent increase compared to the same month last year. The airport handled more than 2.26 million passengers.