EMIRATES SkyCargo has said it is on track to move to Dubai World Central (DWC) with the first phase of its building being finished. Starting this month, all 12 freighters will operate from the new cargo terminal.

The cross docks and perishables areas have been fully completed and mark a critical milestone in the start of operations at the beginning of the month. The cargo handling system and interiors are due to be finalised shortly and are also well on schedule.

With the conclusion of the first construction phase Emirates SkyCargo is currently starting to test facilities and trucking operations between DWC and Dubai International Airport. Initially operations will start with 250 staff, which will be increased to 500 upon full operation of the entire terminal.

DEDICATED FACILITY

“The move of our freighter operations to DWC provides us with the opportunity to have a dedicated facility for our freighters with the required infrastructure, space and the opportunity to further expand and meet our customers’ needs. The new terminal and facilities is a key part of our growth plans. With almost two million tonnes of cargo being processed per year at Dubai International Airport, the new facility enables us to increase our capacity addressing SkyCargo’s long-term requirements,” said Dave Gould senior vice president, cargo operations worldwide.

Upon full completion, the terminal will be equipped to handle 700,000 tonnes per year, with the potential for further expansion to reach 1 million tonnes.