Federal Express Corporation, the world’s largest express transportation company, is reinforcing its transatlantic network from Belgium with the addition of a nonstop cargo flight between Liège and Memphis (USA). This strategic enhancement underscores FedEx’s continued commitment to its footprint in Wallonia and the further development of its intercontinental freight hub in Liège, which plays a growing role in the company’s global operations.
Starting April 28, the addition of this flight increases the frequency of the Liège–Memphis route from five to eight times per week, using a Boeing 777 Freighter, capable of transporting up to 150,000 lbs of freight per flight.
The role of Liege in the FedEx air network has shifted in recent years to being a dedicated intercontinental freight hub, part of a global strategy to redesign the air network to improve density and network utlilisation. The increased frequency enhances the role of Liege in the global network and comes as FedEx continues to focus on its strategy to grow in the sizeable $80 billion global air freight market.
“The increased frequency of the Liege-Memphis air route underscores the strategic role Liege hub plays in our global air network, being the intercontinental freight hub for Europe. This development reflects our commitment to a strong and sustainable presence in Wallonia. We are proud to continue supporting Liège, both in infrastructure and in people, while strengthening Belgium’s role at the heart of international trade flows,” says Rudi Loontiens, managing director, hub operations at FedEx.
FedEx’s first launch of the Liège–Memphis connection took place in April 2017. Since then, the company has expanded its nonstop transatlantic offering from Liège with new routes to Indianapolis and Oakland. Together, these connections reinforce the Belgian hub’s importance as a gateway between Europe and global markets.
A major economic driver in Wallonia
FedEx has been active in Liège since 1998, creating jobs, driving investments, and reinforcing Belgium’s position within global supply chains. Its long-standing presence also benefits the local community by supporting direct and indirect jobs, partnering closely with local businesses, and fostering long-term economic stability in the region. This also includes providing essential logistics support to local small and medium-sizedenterprises (SMEs), enabling them to reach new markets and grow internationally.
Today, FedEx is the largest employer at Liège Airport, with 1,300 team members, more than half of whom come from nearby communities. In Q4 2024 alone, FedEx created 130 new positions and contract-increases at the Liege site. Over the past ten years, the company has invested significantly in the site, including in specialised equipment to ensure the safe and efficient handling of freight, with a continued focus on the safety of employees, goods, and aircraft.