Air France-KLM Cargo expands footprint at JFK

Air France-KLM Cargo has opened a new cargo handling facility at New York’s JFK Airport. The European carrier’s new facility is a significant upgrade, and is able to accommodate both general cargo and specialty shipments, such as live animals and express cargo that require timely movement.

The new facility features 72-cubic-meter-capacity cool chain enclosures, capable of maintaining temperatures in the 2° to 8°C range, as well as 108 cubic meter enclosures at the 15° to 25°C range. The company reported that there will also be ten active container-charging points and a secure vault offering top-level security for high-value cargo.

Air France-KLM Cargo is making an ambitious bid for live shipments as well by sharing a building with “The ARK,” which bills itself as a “a comprehensive multi-purpose animal handling and air cargo facility.” According to the live-handling company’s website, it is “the world’s only privately owned animal terminal and USDA-approved, full-service, 24-hour airport quarantine facility for import and export of horses, pets, birds and livestock.”

Air France-KLM Cargo said it hopes to leverage this relationship to gain an advantage with live-shipments. The new facility adds 50 percent more loading dock doors and can now accommodate 53-foot trailers.