Palermo Airport (PMO) has commissioned a new cargo terminal, marking a significant milestone in the development of aviation logistics in Southern Italy. The facility covers an area of approximately 900 square meters – three times the capacity of the previous infrastructure – enabling a substantial increase in cargo handling volumes amidst rising demand for air freight services.
The terminal is housed within a renovated building that formerly served as the arrivals hall at Falcone-Borsellino Airport. The modernization project involved a complete overhaul of the interior spaces and technical systems, as well as the implementation of modern fire safety and seismic resilience standards. The facility is equipped with video surveillance, smoke extraction, and security screening systems – including a new cargo X-ray scanner and personnel screening equipment – all of which comply with international security regulations.
According to Gianfranco Battisti, CEO of the airport operator Gesap, the launch of the new terminal strengthens Palermo’s position in the air cargo sector, an area that is becoming increasingly significant and lucrative. This new infrastructure creates additional business opportunities for the region, fostering growth in e-commerce, agricultural exports, and international trade flows. Furthermore, the terminal ensures efficient cargo handling through a well-designed truck access system and expedited aircraft loading procedures; looking ahead, it is set to become an integral part of a broader cargo infrastructure expansion program aimed at tripling the facility’s overall capacity.