Worldwide Flight Services has signed a memorandum of understanding with Sjømatterminalen AS to operate the new Seafood Center at Oslo Airport.

“We are confident in WFS’ experience in perishable cargo and their commitment to this project,” said Martin Langaas, director of cargo at Norwegian airport operator Avinor. “This is a unique opportunity to define the future of cool chain logistics for seafood as air cargo. The Seafood Center at Oslo Airport will increase the competitiveness of Norwegian seafood globally and industrialize the handling. With an experienced international handler as WFS, we believe Oslo Airport will increase its competitive advantage as the preferred cargo hub in Northern Europe.”

Construction of the dedicated terminal is expected to begin in April 2019, with operations set to commence in 2021. The facility is designed to meet cool chain requirements and will handle up to 250,000 tonnes of seafood annually.

“We have listened to the exporters and their needs to ensure quality and time to market,” said Øyvind Hasaas, executive vice president of Oslo Airport. “I believe the dedication from the seafood exporters in this project is an acknowledgement of the project itself. The Seafood Center will create value for all of Norway and increase the competitiveness of Norwegian seafood globally.

In 2018, Norwegian seafood as air cargo is expected to reach some 230,000 tonnes. As a result, Oslo Airport is now the largest freighter airport in Northern Europe with 14 cargo airlines calling at the airport weekly.”

Norway accounts for half of all the air cargo generated in the Nordic region. In 2017, Oslo Airport handled 185,000 tonnes of cargo, including 90,000 tonnes of seafood, and was the fastest growing cargo airport in Europe with a 36% growth rate.

“As one of the world’s leading cargo handlers globally, we are excited to expand our network into Norway and Oslo Airport,” said John Batten, executive vice president of cargo in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa at WFS. “The Seafood industry is a unique opportunity for us to share our experience and excellence in air cargo handling. We look forward to opening a dedicated facility at Oslo Airport that is fully adapted to the future needs of the seafood industry. Our terminal will be a game changer in the handling of seafood as air cargo and be an important part of ensuring the future growth of one of Norway’s most important industries.”