Cargo First, the dedicated cargo division of Bournemouth Airport, is entering a new phase of growth following significant investment in infrastructure, operational capability and customer service, reinforcing its position as one of the UK's most agile and accessible airfreight gateways.

Over the past 18 months, Bournemouth Airport has completed a major programme of investment designed to support the increasing demands of the air cargo sector.

The airport has invested approximately £10 million in new cargo facilities, including brand-new apron space providing capability of handling up to three ICAO Code E aircraft simultaneously, an expanded customs-bonded warehouse and improved landside road infrastructure, creating additional capacity and operational flexibility.

A further £5.5 million investment in the airport's fuel farm is nearing completion, enhancing resilience and supporting the operation of larger cargo aircraft as demand continues to grow.

The investments come at a time when air cargo operators are increasingly seeking alternatives to congested hub airports, with speed, flexibility and reliability becoming ever more important factors in supply chain decision-making.

Bournemouth Airport’s geographical position remains one of its strongest advantages. Located just 90 minutes from key logistics centres west of London and within easy reach of the Midlands, the airport provides direct access to some of the UK's largest and most valuable consumer markets.

Unlike many airports operating within heavily congested airspace, Bournemouth's location in the south of England offers operational efficiencies that can translate into tangible savings for airlines and freight operators. Shorter flight times, significantly reduced air and ground holding and faster aircraft-to-highway cargo processing times all contribute to a compelling proposition for customers looking to improve supply chain performance.

Complementing the infrastructure investment, Cargo First has continued to invest in its people, broadening the capabilities of its cargo operations team and strengthening its commercial focus under the leadership of Managing Director Steve Gill and Head of Development Rob Johnson.

The airport's distinctive ‘One Team’ approach continues to appeal to customers. By bringing together airport operations, cargo handling and ancillary services under a single management structure, Cargo First is able to offer a streamlined and responsive service that many operators find increasingly attractive.

While e-commerce remains a core market, Bournemouth is seeing growing interest from a wider range of airfreight sectors where speed to market, operational flexibility and direct access to consumers are equally critical.

The recent extension of standard daily operating hours to 06:15-02:30 local time (with extension beyond possible subject to prior notice), as part of a phased move towards full 24-hour capability, is further enhancing the airport's appeal. The additional flexibility, combined with available slots up to and beyond midnight, is generating increased interest from operators seeking capacity and operational certainty.

Rob Johnson, Head of Development at Bournemouth Airport, said: "The investments we have made over the past two years demonstrate our long-term commitment to the air cargo sector. We have created the infrastructure, operational capability and flexibility that modern cargo operators need, while retaining the responsive, customer-focused approach that sets Bournemouth apart.

"As supply chains continue to evolve, we're seeing increasing demand for airports that can offer speed, reliability and room to grow. Bournemouth is uniquely positioned to deliver all three, and we're looking forward to working with both existing and new customers as we continue to expand our cargo operation."

With a busy pipeline of ad hoc project movements and longer-term contracts, Cargo First says the foundations are firmly in place for continued growth and for Bournemouth Airport to strengthen its role as an important cargo gateway serving the UK market.