YYC Calgary International Airport is marking 25 years of cargo operations with Cargolux, highlighting the Luxembourg-based carrier’s longstanding role in connecting Western Canada with international markets.
Cargolux launched dedicated freighter services to Calgary in September 2001, establishing a direct cargo link between Alberta and Europe. Since then, YYC has grown into a major air freight gateway for the region, with more than 70% of Alberta’s air cargo tonnage now moving through the airport.
The anniversary comes as Alberta’s export economy has expanded substantially. According to YYC, provincial exports have increased from C$56.9 billion 25 years ago to more than C$176 billion in the most recent year.
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Longstanding Europe–Western Canada Link
Cargolux’s Calgary operation provides a dedicated freighter connection to the carrier’s European hub in Luxembourg, from where shipments can connect to a global network of destinations.
Today, Cargolux connects Calgary to more than 70 destinations worldwide through Luxembourg, supporting transatlantic cargo flows for businesses across Alberta and Western Canada.
“A lot has changed across our region over the last 25 years,” said Balázs Bogáts, Chief Commercial Officer at Calgary Airports.
Bogáts pointed to the expansion of Calgary’s logistics sector, the emergence of new industries and the growing international reach of regional businesses, adding that Cargolux has provided a direct connection between Western Canada and overseas markets throughout that period.
Richard Forson, President and CEO of Cargolux, said the airline was proud of its long-standing relationship with Calgary Airport.
“As the only scheduled international cargo operator offering services in this province, Cargolux supports transatlantic trade flows between Europe and Alberta,” Forson said.
He added that the two organisations had worked closely over the past 25 years to support customers across the region and would continue the partnership.
Expanding Cargo Infrastructure
The growth of cargo activity at YYC has been accompanied by significant investment in airport infrastructure.
YYC recorded more than 5,200 cargo landings in the previous year, according to Calgary Airports. The airport has invested more than C$100 million in cargo infrastructure, including specialised facilities designed to handle a broad range of shipments.
The infrastructure supports temperature- and time-sensitive commodities such as perishables and pharmaceuticals, alongside oversized industrial equipment and live animals.
The diversity of cargo reflects the broader industrial base of Alberta and the role of air freight in connecting regional businesses with international markets.
Calgary Strengthens Its Cargo Position
The Cargolux anniversary also comes as Calgary continues to develop its position as an international air cargo centre.
YYC is scheduled to host the International Air Transport Association’s World Cargo Symposium in 2027, bringing the global air cargo community to Calgary for one of the industry’s major annual gatherings.
The airport’s expanding cargo infrastructure, combined with established international freighter connectivity, is positioning YYC to support Alberta’s growing trade flows and the evolving logistics requirements of exporters and importers.
For Cargolux, the 25-year milestone underscores the importance of its Calgary operation within the carrier’s transatlantic network and its role in supporting trade between Western Canada and Europe.
The continued partnership also illustrates how sustained freighter connectivity and investment in specialised cargo infrastructure can strengthen an airport’s role in supporting regional trade and international supply chains.
