Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has started redevelopment of its 19th Street cargo facility.
It says it will apply state-of-the-art technology that addresses labor shortages, airport congestion, and sustainability while increasing safety, efficiency, and security across the cargo ecosystem.
The project is slated for completion in late 2024 and will add about 350,000sq ft of new warehouse space and seven ADG VI (large cargo aircraft) parking positions.
DFW has also “tentatively selected” Menzies Aviation and Dnata USA to operate new cargo warehouses. , subject to final approval by its board of directors, who will join a future design-build contractor to create and operate the facility.
DFW’s executive vice president, global strategy and development, John Ackerman, 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.”
Menzies Aviation executive vice president of cargo, Robert Fordree, added: “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 officer Americas, said: “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.”