Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport reported a double-digit increase in cargo volumes last year following investments in its cargo area.
The airport last year saw its cargo volumes increase by 14.2% to 335,407 tons, according to figures released by International Council of Airports of Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC).
The airport said this is the highest percentage increase of any airport in the Latin America region and means it is now the region’s fifth-largest cargo airport, up from sixth in 2022.
In 2023, the airport completed the expansion of the export cargo terminal, adding 2,880 sq m to the cargo entry and processing areas, as well as to the truck manoeuvring area.
“These improvements have boosted operational efficiency, optimising processes and facilitating the sustained growth of the airport,” the airport said.
The airport would have also benefitted from the continued return of bellyhold operations following the Covid pandemic.
It added that it was only airport in Ecuador and one of only a few in the region to have a cargo logistics centre within the airport grounds.
“The logistics centre, operated by Tababela Cargo Center, carries out important processes such as centralised consolidation of export cargo, on the one hand, and customs clearance and temporary warehouse services for imports.”
Looking ahead, the airport is expected to post further volume improvements this year.
It pointed out that during the Valentine’s Day peak season volumes were up 17.3% to 26,466 tons.
Ramón Miró, president and chief executive of Corporación Quiport, said: “The great performance of air cargo is a reflection of the commitment and continuous effort of all the actors involved in the airport’s cargo logistics chain, who have achieved high levels of efficiency in the operation. Quiport has been making a permanent effort to improve our facilities and services, as well as to bring more cargo airlines to our airport.
“We are proud to see how Mariscal Sucre Airport is consolidating itself as a key player in air cargo transportation in the region, contributing to the country’s economic development and Ecuador’s connection to the world.”
15 cargo airlines operate from the airport offering both scheduled and charter flights.
More than 90% of cargo transported from the airport is flowers.
https://www.aircargonews.net/cargo-airport/quito-expands-flower-processing-area-as-it-prepares-for-busy-valentines-season/
