In the first six months of 2025, air cargo volumes in Europe grew by 0.6% year-on-year, exceeding 2019 figures by more than 10.4%. However, a decline of 8.4% was recorded in June, and growth in the second quarter was only 0.1%.
Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a SATS Group company, has opened a new dedicated e-commerce and freight forwarding terminal (EFFH) at Copenhagen Airport. The new 4,800 sqm facility brings WFS’s total infrastructure at CPH to 21,500 sqm, including a pharmaceutical hub.
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov held a meeting on the development of the aviation industry and the implementation of the President’s instructions to strengthen the role of Kazakhstan as an aviation hub. The key point of discussion was the creation of a national cargo air carrier – a strategic project aimed at reorienting transit flows and strengthening the country’s position in the global air cargo market.
Alliance Cargo Express (ACE), a New York-based logistics operator, has entered into a strategic partnership with Turkish Cargo to expand its international airfreight services. The collaboration provides access to more than 120 destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, as well as the integration of ACE’s digital platform – with instant rate calculations and real-time cargo tracking.
Air France-KLM has become the first airline to formally announce its intention to participate in the privatization of the Portuguese national carrier TAP Air Portugal. The company has stressed its interest in the process and confirmed its readiness to submit a bid once the Portuguese government has clarified the terms of the sale.
Menzies Aviation has completed a strategic partnership with Airport Service Budapest, significantly expanding its presence at Budapest Airport (BUD). Following receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, Airport Service Budapest’s operations, including ground handling and cargo services, have been merged with Menzies Aviation Hungary and Menzies Aviation Cargo Hungary. All employees have been integrated into the new structure, and the SkyCourt Lounge is now part of Menzies’ premium service. Together, the companies will handle over 2,500 flights and over 12,000 tonnes of cargo per month at BUD.
The air cargo division of the MSC Group, MSC Air Cargo, has become a new member of the German association Barig (Board of Airline Representatives in Germany), which unites leading players in the aviation market. The company operates flights using Boeing 777-200 freighters between Europe, Asia and America.
Japan Airlines (JAL) has introduced a new logistics service, “J Solutions Pharma Cells,” specifically designed for the rapidly growing regenerative medicine industry. The service provides fast and highly controlled transportation of living and cryopreserved cells, including those for induced pluripotent stem cell (IPS) therapies.
The Portuguese government has decided to put 49.9% of the shares of the national airline TAP up for sale, including 5% intended for employees. According to Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, the largest European airline groups have already expressed interest in the deal – Lufthansa, Air France-KLM and the owner of British Airways, the IAG holding. All applications will be assessed based on financial, technical and strategic criteria.
Oman’s flag carrier Oman Air has become a full member of the global airline alliance Oneworld, bringing its membership to 15, effective July 1, 2025. The strategic move opens up new routes and opportunities for the airline, particularly in the Gulf and South Asia. Oneworld CEO Nat Pieper said Oman Air’s entry will strengthen the alliance’s network and make travel more convenient for customers.
