Lufthansa Cargo has launched its first regular all-cargo flights between Frankfurt and Katowice, marking a significant expansion of its Polish network.

The new route, operated twice weekly, is served by an Airbus A321F capable of carrying up to 28 tonnes of cargo.

The A321F, which Lufthansa Cargo introduced to its fleet in March 2022, is well-suited for regional European routes. The aircraft offers flexible loading options, with capacity for up to 14 containers on the upper deck (max height 208cm) and 10 containers in the lower deck (max height 115cm). Lufthansa Cargo currently operates four of these narrowbody freighters.

In addition to the A321F fleet, Lufthansa Cargo operates 18 widebody Boeing 777 freighters, including six operated by AeroLogic during weekends.

The airline also leverages the cargo capacity of 480 Lufthansa Group passenger aircraft, using their bellyholds for additional freight.

This new Katowice–Frankfurt link builds on Lufthansa Cargo’s existing footprint in the region. Since January 2021, the carrier has operated a Road Feeder Service (RFS) freight consolidation facility at Katowice Airport, moving shipments by truck to and from other airports. These RFS transports are assigned flight numbers and treated as part of the air cargo network.

The regular all-cargo flights will provide a premium freight solution for businesses in southern Poland and are expected to enhance service reliability and speed for the region.

Wojciech Ryglewicz, director of sales and handling for Central and Eastern Europe at Lufthansa Cargo, said: “The launch of a regular cargo route between Frankfurt and Katowice is not only a further step in the development of our operational network in Central and Eastern Europe, but above all a response to the growing needs of industry in the region.

“Nowadays, fast and reliable air transport is a key component of supply chains, enabling companies to operate efficiently in a globally competitive environment. We are certain that the new connection will be a real support for the dynamically developing industrial sector and will contribute to building Poland’s long-term economic potential.”

Artur Tomasik, president of the board of the Upper Silesian Aviation Group, said: “We were the first Polish airport where Lufthansa Cargo began handling regular cargo flights; undoubtedly, it emphasises the significance of our airport in the area of air cargo in Central Europe.

“The launch of this route is the outcome of our great, long and consistent cooperation with the Lufthansa Cargo team, for which I wish to thank. At the same time, I believe that more exciting projects await us.”

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