Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) has expanded its cargo handling operations at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) to accommodate new contracts with Lufthansa and Swiss WorldCargo.
WFS expects to handle 23,000 tonnes per annum for the two airlines, who have signed three-year handling agreements starting September 01.
“For our business in South Africa, this was a unique opportunity to combine the winning of two major airline contracts with the chance to add a well-functioning and equipped facility with a trained team of employees. This extends WFS’ working relationships with both airlines at major airports globally,” said Malcolm Tonkin, General Manager– Cargo for WFS South Africa.
In its latest investment in South Africa, WFS has acquired the lease on a further 3,600 sq mt of warehouse capacity in Johannesburg, purchased additional cargo handling equipment and increased its workforce to ensure the highest levels of service, safety and security for Lufthansa and Swiss WorldCargo’s air freight operations. Last year, WFS also built a new 350 sq mt pharma facility at OR Tambo, which has since gained GDP accreditation for the handling of temperature-controlled healthcare products.
“This is another important step towards achieving WFS’ growth and development strategy for South Africa, albeit during challenging times. The added capacity, equipment and staff give us a platform to expand and increase our footprint in Johannesburg as we emerge from the pandemic,” said Tonkin.
WFS said the new contracts will make it the second largest cargo handler in Johannesburg.
The contracts also expand its footprint in South Africa, adding to the cargo handling company’s cargo operations in Cape Town after winning the contract from United last December.
