The surge comes as the airport strides towards a fresh strategy with a greater focus on cargo flights
Amsterdam/Schiphol’s latest half year cargo figures have revealed an increased throughput year-on-year, with inbound freight tonnage up by an average of 29.5% compared to the first six months of 2020. The hub’s outbound data has also risen by 25.7%, while full freighter flights were up 23.5% at 12,691.
It processed 837,671 tonnes of goods within the first six months of this year, a growth of 27.7% on the same period last year.
The data follows an ongoing commitment to shape Europe’s smartest shipment hub, through the implementation of a new strategy focused on sustainability, efficiency, and digitisation.
It will continue to drive its Smart Cargo Mainport Programme (SCMP) and finalise the renewal of Cargonaut’s Port Community System (PCS) over the coming months.
“The future of Schiphol will be about collaboration and the partnership directors are focused on re-connecting with the cargo community and moving towards the future with plenty of energy,” said Hélène van Riemsdijk-Schouten, manager of airline and cargo partnerships. “Our aim is to optimise top connectivity, realise state-of-the-art digitalisation, create a green airport, orchestrate seamless processes, and deploy empowered partnerships.”
The airport had been facing capacity shortages for freighters due to slot restrictions - a challenge which the airport has worked tirelessly to resolve with the Dutch Government and other organisations.
“The figures demonstrate that cargo remains important, not only for Schiphol and its local air freight community, but also for the economy of the Netherlands,” said Anne Marie van Hemert, head of aviation business development. “It is no secret that the Schiphol cargo community was facing big challenges before anyone had ever heard of COVID-19.”
She added: “Despite the pandemic we have continued to work on the issues that matter most, and we are ready to move forward towards a better future for every member of the chain.”
