Korean Air Cargo is set to significantly enhance its cargo operations on the US East Coast with a comprehensive modernisation of its cargo terminal at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The airline has appointed Lödige Industries, a global specialist in cargo terminal automation, to deliver the upgrade, which will introduce advanced automation and expanded cool chain capabilities aimed at improving efficiency, safety and sustainability.
Opened in December 2000, the JFK cargo terminal is one of the largest air cargo facilities in the eastern United States. The facility spans more than 17,000 square metres of warehouse space and has an annual handling capacity of approximately 200,000 tonnes, serving as a critical gateway for Korean Air’s transpacific and global cargo network.
The modernisation programme will see the introduction of a suite of state-of-the-art automated systems designed to increase throughput while enhancing workplace safety. A key component of the upgrade is the installation of two fully automated Elevating Transfer Vehicles (ETVs), which will significantly improve the speed and capacity of unit load device (ULD) handling. Existing fixed transfer vehicles will be removed and replaced with flexible Cargo Pallet Movers, optimising space utilisation and enabling more efficient cargo flows. In addition, 14 existing workstations will be upgraded to modern models to support higher productivity and improved ergonomics.
Strengthening temperature-controlled infrastructure is another major focus of the project. Korean Air Cargo will add a new refrigerated warehouse and carry out extensive upgrades to its existing cool chain facilities. Across four temperature-controlled warehouse zones, equipment such as temperature control systems, roller conveyors and shutters will be renewed, ensuring greater reliability for pharmaceuticals, perishables and other sensitive cargo requiring strict thermal management.
“JFK is our gateway for cargo services along the East Coast and a key hub in our growing global network,” said Junho Choi, Regional Manager, Cargo Office in New York, Washington and Boston at Korean Air Cargo. “By modernising the terminal with state-of-the-art automation technology, we are ensuring long-term efficiency, higher safety standards and increased sustainability of our operations.”
Lödige Industries said the project reflects the growing importance of JFK in global air cargo supply chains. “Korean Air Cargo is renowned worldwide for its high-quality cargo service,” said Jonathan Hardy, Managing Director North America at Lödige Industries. “With the modernised terminal, all requirements are in place to meet the highest customer expectations at JFK for years to come. As the airport continues to grow in importance for global commerce, this upgrade will further strengthen Korean Air’s leading market position.”
Once completed, the modernised JFK cargo terminal is expected to enhance Korean Air Cargo’s ability to handle rising volumes, support specialised cargo segments and deliver faster, more reliable services for customers across the Americas and beyond.
