New weekly freighter connection strengthens Rockford’s role as a strategic gateway linking Asia, Europe and the Americas, with Chennai service planned later this year.
Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) has further expanded its international air cargo network with the launch of a new scheduled DSV freighter service connecting the airport to Incheon International Airport (ICN) in South Korea. The weekly service marks another milestone in the airport’s strategy to enhance connectivity with key Asian markets while reinforcing its position as a major transcontinental cargo hub.
The newly introduced Incheon route complements DSV’s existing scheduled freighter operations between Rockford and Shanghai Pudong International Airport, launched in November 2025, and Luxembourg Airport, which commenced in June 2026. Together, these services create a robust logistics corridor linking Asia, Europe and the Americas through one of the United States’ fastest-growing dedicated cargo airports.
“The launch of our Incheon service marks another important milestone in our long-term strategy to increase Rockford’s connectivity with Asia,” said Zack Oakley, Executive Director of Chicago Rockford International Airport.
He added that the combined Shanghai, Luxembourg and Incheon services provide reliable scheduled connections between North America, Europe and Asia through an airport designed around speed, efficiency and operational reliability. The new Incheon-bound freighter will depart Rockford every Saturday.
For DSV, the new route significantly strengthens its expanding global air freight network by offering customers additional capacity and improved access to one of Asia’s busiest cargo gateways.
Mohamed Siraj, Vice President, Air Direct/Global Gateways at DSV, said Incheon is among Asia’s most important cargo hubs and the new service enables the company to deliver greater network connectivity through Rockford.
He noted that Rockford has consistently demonstrated the operational reliability, flexibility and infrastructure required to support scheduled international freighter services, making it a strategic choice as DSV continues to expand its global air cargo operations.
Looking ahead, Chicago Rockford International Airport and DSV are planning to further strengthen their partnership with the introduction of a scheduled freighter service connecting Rockford and Chennai International Airport later in 2026. Once operational, the service will add another important gateway to India’s growing manufacturing and export market, further enhancing cargo connectivity between North America and Asia.
The latest expansion reflects Rockford’s growing importance in global air cargo logistics, supported by its dedicated cargo infrastructure, uncongested operations and strategic location in the U.S. Midwest. As international trade continues to evolve, the airport is positioning itself as an increasingly important hub for time-sensitive freight moving between Asia, Europe and the Americas.
