Lufthansa Cargo Launches Operations From Munich

DALLAS — Lufthansa Cargo (LH) is expanding its reach in southern Germany with the launch of freighter operations from Munich Airport (MUC). Starting on July 6, 2024, this will be the first time, LH will operate freighter aircraft directly from its MUC hub.

The German carrier will utilize an A321 freighter aircraft for a twice-weekly flight between MUC and Istanbul (IST). Flight numbers LH8350/LH8351 and LH8346/LH8347 will operate on Saturdays and Sundays, providing a dedicated cargo option to complement LH’s existing belly network from MUC.

"This new freighter connection enhances our global network's attractiveness. Munich Airport offers ideal conditions for the swift and reliable transportation of air cargo, particularly benefiting our southern German customers. Launching cargo operations from Munich allows us to further align our network with customer needs and maintain flexibility,” said Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo.

Infrastructure

The new freighter service complements Munich's existing cargo infrastructure. LH operates a 38,000-square-meter hub at the airport, including the state-of-the-art, CEIV-certified Pharma Hub MUC.

This facility offers approximate storage and handling conditions for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products. With this addition, LH is positioned to handle a wider range of product and goods groups efficiently through MUC.

Previously, cargo transportation from MUC relied primarily on belly capacity offered by passenger aircraft from LH, Brussels Airlines (SN), Discover Airlines (DQ), Austrian Airlines (OS), and SunExpress (TK). The MUC hub also boasts a robust Road Feeder Service (RFS) network, ensuring seamless movement of cargo by road.

Lufthansa Cargo: Key Highlights

• A global leader in airfreight transportation (Revenue: €3 billion, Volume: 7.5 billion freight ton kilometers in 2023).
• Extensive network: 300+ destinations, 100+ countries (freighter aircraft, passenger belly capacity from Lufthansa Group airlines, trucks).
• The focus is on airport-to-airport cargo, with Frankfurt Airport (FRA) as its main hub.
• They are committed to environmental responsibility: investments in sustainable practices like the Boeing 777 Freighter fleet expansion, A321 freighters for shorter routes, Sustainable Aviation Fuel program.
• Plans (2024): Sharkskin technology for the Boeing 777 Freighter fleet, digital service expansion, and CO2 emission reduction initiatives.