Dallas Fort Worth International Airport has begun a redevelopment if its cargo facilities as it strives to address human resources shortages, congestion and sustainability.
The enhancements to the Airport’s 19th Street Cargo facility will increased international cargo capacity and the airport’s ability to process international e-commerce business.
The airport said start-of-the-art technology will be deployed to increase safety, efficiency, and security across the cargo ecosystem.
The redevelopment is expected to be complete in late 2024, adding 350,000 square feet of new warehouse space and seven ADG VI (large cargo aircraft) parking positions.
Menzies Aviation and dnata USA have been selected to operate new cargo warehouses that will be located at the 19th Street Cargo area.
These operators, which are subject to final approval by the DFW Board of Directors, will join a future design-build contractor to create and operate what the airport said will be a world-leading facility.
John Ackerman, DFW executive vice president, global strategy and development, said: “We selected these tenants for their commitment to excellence in cargo handling and their long-term business strategy, which supports our business priorities in developing DFW as a transit hub in the global supply chain connecting Asia and Latin America.
“This will also support our goal of being a hub for the fastest growing markets, including pharma and other perishables, as well as cross-border e-commerce.”
Robert Fordree, executive vice president of cargo at Menzies Aviation, said: “We are looking forward to partnering with Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on this new cargo initiative, increasing our footprint at the airport as we already have a well-established cargo business.
“This new cargo opportunity will allow us to showcase our investment in innovation and make the new DFW cargo facility one of the most technologically advanced in North America.”
David Barker, dnata’s regional chief executive Americas, added: “We are proud to have been selected to partner with DFW as they embark on this extensive redevelopment project.
“dnata continues to invest in cutting-edge, state-of-the-art technologies and digitization, to further enhance efficiencies across our operations. This includes the use of innovative autonomous drones in our existing warehouses at DFW.
“Our long-term commitment to sustainable operations, including the construction of new, LEED-certified buildings, also aligns with DFW’s plans for the 19th Street Cargo redevelopment. We look forward to working closely with DFW to ensure the project’s long-term success.”
