San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is investing more than $300 million in a new air cargo terminal designed to increase capacity, improve efficiency and strengthen its position as a leading cargo gateway on the US West Coast.

Lödige Industries has been selected to equip the 310,000 sqft facility with customised automated storage, retrieval and high-throughput cargo handling technology, supporting the airport’s plans to accommodate growing cargo volumes.

Scheduled for completion in spring 2028, with operations expected to begin later that year, the two-storey terminal will provide airlines, freight forwarders and logistics providers with faster, more reliable and scalable cargo handling capabilities.

At the heart of the facility will be three Elevating Transfer Vehicles (ETVs), which provide fully automated storage and retrieval of unit load devices (ULDs). Operating on a rail-guided system, the ETVs can move ULDs vertically and horizontally at the same time, increasing operational flexibility, boosting throughput and reducing turnaround times.

Samuel Chui, project manager at SFO, said: “This investment reflects SFO’s commitment to providing modern, efficient cargo facilities that support our airline partners and the regional economy.”

Jonathan Hardy, managing director North America at Lödige Industries, said: “Our automated systems are engineered for maximum efficiency and scalability, enabling SFO to handle growing cargo volumes while fully leveraging advanced automation and digital connectivity.”

Hardy added: “Growing e-commerce and global trade are driving an increase in air cargo volumes, prompting key US cargo hubs to expand and modernise. Lödige Industries is dedicated to serve as a reliable strategic partner, supporting airports as they navigate an evolving industry landscape.

“The project at SFO marks another important milestone in our commitment to innovation in North America’s air cargo industry, building on current projects at New York John F. Kennedy and Toronto Pearson International Airport.”

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