Lufthansa Cargo has launched the first phase of its LCCevo infrastructure project at Frankfurt Airport. The milestone marks the start of operations at the upgraded cargo hub following the completion of the ALPHA construction phase.
The company is investing around €600 million to modernize the Lufthansa Cargo Center (LCC). The project covers approximately 80,000 square metres and aims to transform the facility into Europe’s most modern air cargo hub by 2030.
The first phase introduces intelligent cargo handling systems, automated processes and new warehouse infrastructure. Lufthansa Cargo said the upgrades will improve cargo flow, increase handling efficiency and support future growth.
A key feature of the project is a fully automated high-bay warehouse. The 42-metre facility offers nearly 3,000 storage positions for large cargo pallets. It can perform more than 300 storage and retrieval operations per hour, doubling previous capacity.
The upgraded hub also includes an automated pallet warehouse for temperature-sensitive and specialised cargo. Intelligent conveyor systems connect the different handling processes to speed up cargo movements throughout the terminal.
“With the launch of phase ALPHA, a vision is becoming a reality,” said Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo. “LCCevo is one of the most significant investments in our company’s history and a clear commitment to Frankfurt as an air cargo hub.”
Bhat said Lufthansa Cargo handles nearly half of all air freight passing through Frankfurt Airport.
“With intelligent cargo flows, state-of-the-art infrastructure and automated processes, we are creating the conditions necessary to continue meeting the demands of global markets,” he said. “In doing so, we are strengthening our competitiveness, Germany’s competitiveness and laying the groundwork for further growth.”
Dr. Michael Niggemann, Member of the Executive Board of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, said the investment supports both Lufthansa Cargo’s long-term strategy and the wider Lufthansa Group.
“Our investment of €600 million in the new LCCevo air cargo center is an important contribution to strengthening our leading position in the air cargo business,” said Niggemann. “With this investment, we are strengthening Frankfurt as one of our most important international hubs and investing in the long-term performance of a location that is of central importance for connecting Germany to global markets.”
Government officials also welcomed the project, highlighting its importance for Germany’s logistics sector and international trade.
Lufthansa Cargo said construction will continue with the BRAVO and CHARLIE phases over the coming years. The completed project will combine increased capacity with sustainability measures, including photovoltaic systems covering around 19,000 square metres of roof space, energy-efficient building technology, heat recovery systems and green roofs to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
