Vienna Airport: Air freight increased by 8% in the 3rd quarter

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Growing importance of freight traffic at Vienna Airport

Vienna Airport underscores its role as a major cargo hub for Central and Eastern Europe with impressive results in 2025. From January to September inclusive, a total cargo volume of over 233,000 tons was handled, representing an increase of eight percent compared to the same period last year. This development demonstrates not only the rising demand for air freight but also the growing importance of Vienna as a location for international trade. Belly cargo capacity on long-haul flights and the e-commerce sector developed particularly dynamically, opening up diverse opportunities for the logistics industry.

Vienna Airport’s air freight performance is characterized by a broad range of services and in-depth expertise, which has been continuously expanded over the years. This combination of quality and efficiency is largely responsible for its sustained positive development and solidifies the airport’s position as a key player in European freight traffic. Vienna’s strategically advantageous geographical location allows it to act as a gateway to important economic regions in Central and Eastern Europe, thus generating time and cost advantages in transport.

Growth drivers: cargo hold and pharmaceutical transport

A key factor in the increased freight volume is the growing use of belly cargo capacity in passenger aircraft. By the end of September 2025, nearly 93,000 tons had already been transported in this way, representing a growth of two percent. Demand was particularly strong in the third quarter: belly cargo increased by twelve percent in July, followed by a ten percent increase in August. This growth reflects the increasing integration of freight and passenger traffic, which allows for the optimal use of valuable capacity.

In parallel, import and export volumes have grown significantly. Import volume increased by five percent, reaching over 125,000 tons in the reporting period. Export figures even grew by eleven percent to almost 108,000 tons. These increases reflect the robust demand and strong economic activity in the region. Another key segment is specialized pharmaceutical handling, represented by the Vienna Pharma Handling Center. This center is one of the few specialized facilities for sensitive pharmaceutical transport in Central and Eastern Europe and recorded volume growth of 7.4 percent. The safe and professional handling of temperature-sensitive and high-value products reinforces the airport’s reputation as a reliable partner in the healthcare sector.

Logistics hub with optimal infrastructure and strategic location

Vienna Airport’s geographical location makes it an ideal hub for air freight in Central and Eastern Europe. Its immediate proximity to key economic centers in these regions provides rapid access to consumer markets and production sites. The airport is regularly served by leading international cargo airlines for intercontinental transport, underscoring its integration into the global transport network.

A key advantage is the airport’s 24-hour operational readiness, which enables fast turnaround times and flexible cargo handling. The infrastructure is designed to meet demanding requirements: a total of 10 Category F aircraft parking positions, including those for wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and the Antonov An-124, are located in close proximity to the terminal buildings. This guarantees short distances and efficient processes for loading and unloading air freight.

The airport is also firmly integrated into the European network of air freight alternative services. This ensures that the most important consumer and economic centers in Central and Eastern Europe can be reached as quickly as possible – within 24 to 48 hours. This rapid accessibility is crucial for time-critical deliveries and strengthens the airport’s competitiveness. Furthermore, with more than 5,400 employees, Flughafen Wien AG is one of the region’s most significant employers, which further contributes to the region’s economic stability.

Future prospects and challenges in the air freight sector

Given the positive developments, the prospects for the air freight sector at Vienna Airport are very promising. The increase in belly cargo capacity and the expansion in e-commerce are opening up new opportunities to further develop and optimize freight traffic. The efficient integration of various logistics segments, from traditional freight transport to sensitive pharmaceutical shipments, is a particular strength of the location.

In addition, the digitalization and automation of processes is playing an increasingly important role. The use of modern technologies can accelerate workflows and reduce error rates, further improving service quality. This is particularly important for time-critical freight and will enable Vienna Airport to consolidate its market position in the long term.

At the same time, the industry faces challenges such as the need for sustainable transport solutions. Environmental regulations, the pressure to reduce CO2 emissions, and the implementation of climate-friendly technologies will be key issues. Vienna Airport is striving to meet these requirements through consistent environmental management measures and the expansion of sustainable infrastructure in order to remain an attractive international logistics hub in the future.

Important air freight hub for Central and Eastern Europe

The performance figures for the current year impressively confirm Vienna Airport’s position as a key air freight hub for Central and Eastern Europe. The significant growth in belly cargo, import and export volumes, and specialized pharmaceutical handling demonstrates that the airport is excellently positioned to meet the increasing demands of global trade.

With its strategic location, high-performance infrastructure, and 24/7 operation, the airport offers an ideal environment for efficient cargo handling. Close connections to leading cargo airlines enable fast and reliable transport to key European economic centers. The combination of long-standing expertise, a modern service portfolio, and an experienced team is the key to meeting future growth opportunities.

In summary, Vienna Airport, as a logistics center of excellence, is a key pillar for the air freight industry in Central and Eastern Europe. The positive developments not only reflect its importance as a cargo hub, but also provide impetus for innovation and sustainable development in the air transport sector.