New weekly Luxembourg-Rockford route strengthens transatlantic cargo connectivity and reinforces RFD’s growing role as a strategic logistics gateway linking Europe, Asia and the Americas
Shanghai, China: Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) has announced a significant expansion of its strategic partnership with global logistics and transport company DSV, with the launch of a new weekly scheduled freight service connecting Luxembourg (LUX) and Rockford. The announcement was made during Air Cargo China 2026 in Shanghai, underscoring the airport’s growing importance in international air cargo networks and multimodal supply chains.
The new Luxembourg service builds upon the successful performance of DSV’s existing Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)-Rockford operation launched in late 2025, further strengthening RFD’s position as a key cargo gateway connecting Europe, Asia and the Americas. The expanded partnership reflects growing demand for efficient, uncongested cargo hubs capable of supporting time-sensitive global logistics operations. The new service has been confirmed by Chicago Rockford International Airport through its official announcement.
Expanding transatlantic connectivity
The addition of the Luxembourg route represents another milestone in Rockford’s strategy to position itself as a preferred international cargo gateway for freight forwarders, airlines and global logistics providers seeking alternatives to congested major metropolitan airports.
Luxembourg serves as one of Europe’s leading air cargo hubs, providing extensive connectivity to major manufacturing, pharmaceutical, automotive and e-commerce markets across the continent. By linking Luxembourg directly with Rockford, DSV will enhance its ability to move freight efficiently between Europe and North America while leveraging RFD’s strategic location and rapid access to inland distribution networks.
The new operation also complements DSV’s growing intercontinental cargo network by creating stronger links between European, Asian and American supply chains.
Building on a successful Shanghai operation
The latest expansion follows the successful launch of DSV’s weekly Shanghai Star Air Freight Charter service connecting Shanghai Pudong International Airport with Rockford in November 2025.
That service has provided customers with direct access to distribution markets throughout North America, Central America and South America, while taking advantage of Rockford’s specialised cargo infrastructure and operational flexibility.
The strong performance of the Shanghai route demonstrated the airport’s ability to efficiently support high-volume international freight operations, paving the way for additional network expansion.
Strategic cargo gateway for global trade
Commenting on the new service, Zack Oakley, Executive Director of Chicago Rockford International Airport, said the expanded partnership reflects the growing confidence that international logistics providers have in the airport’s cargo capabilities.
“This expansion demonstrates the strength of our partnership with DSV and reinforces Rockford’s position as a premier cargo gateway for international trade.”
Oakley highlighted the airport’s unique operational advantages, which continue to attract global logistics companies seeking reliable alternatives to more congested aviation hubs.
“Rockford offers a unique value proposition for logistics providers through our dedicated, uncongested, 24/7 cargo operations, and we are proud to leverage this in support of DSV’s expanding network.”
Unlike many major passenger airports, Chicago Rockford International Airport operates as a cargo-focused facility with around-the-clock operations, reduced airside congestion and rapid aircraft turnaround times, enabling logistics providers to improve supply chain efficiency and reliability.
DSV plans further expansion
For DSV, one of the world’s largest transport and logistics companies, Rockford has become an increasingly valuable component of its global air freight network.
Stefan Krikken, Head of Airfreight – Global at DSV, said the airport’s operational performance has consistently met the company’s expectations.
“Rockford has proven itself to be a valued partner through its dedicated cargo focus, reliable infrastructure and operational consistency.”
He added that the success of the Shanghai service highlighted the strategic advantages offered by the Illinois cargo gateway.
“The success of our Shanghai operation highlighted the strategic value of Rockford, and we have plans to further benefit from the airport’s flexibility, fast transit times and dependable access to key markets.”
Incheon service under evaluation
Building on the momentum of the Shanghai and Luxembourg operations, DSV is also evaluating additional opportunities to expand its international connectivity through Rockford.
Among the projects under consideration is a new scheduled freight service linking Incheon International Airport (ICN), South Korea, with Chicago Rockford International Airport, which could be introduced later this year.
If implemented, the proposed Incheon service would further strengthen Rockford’s position within Asia-North America trade lanes while providing customers with enhanced connectivity to one of the world’s most important manufacturing and technology export markets.
Supporting resilient global supply chains
The continued expansion of DSV’s operations at Chicago Rockford International Airport reflects broader trends within the air cargo industry, where logistics providers are increasingly diversifying gateway strategies to improve resilience, reduce congestion and shorten transit times.
Secondary cargo airports with dedicated freight infrastructure are playing an increasingly important role in supporting global trade, particularly as cross-border e-commerce, high-value manufacturing and time-critical shipments continue to drive demand for efficient air logistics solutions.
By expanding its partnership with DSV through the addition of the Luxembourg service—and with further growth under evaluation—Chicago Rockford International Airport continues to strengthen its role as a strategic international cargo hub connecting Europe, Asia and the Americas while supporting the evolving needs of global supply chains.
