Istanbul, 04 September 2023 – FedEx Express Europe, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, today announces it has signed an agreement to build a new global air transit facility at iGA Istanbul Airport (IST) by November 2024, reflecting the rapid rise of IST as a strategic cargo hub connecting businesses across six continents.
iGA Istanbul Airport is a rising star in world aviation. Its infrastructure, connectivity, technology, and location make it a global center for passenger, cargo and logistics traffic. It is the world’s second busiest airport in terms of international passenger numbers, and in the top five cargo airports in Europe.
FedEx currently supports customers on key intercontinental trading routes through a shared third-party facility at iGA Istanbul Airport. The new dedicated facility strengthens its presence at IST, in-sourcing operations for greater reliability on a site covering more than 25,300 square meters – more than two times the size of the current operation. It includes three parking spots for FedEx aircraft, space for 32 vans, and seven truck doors, and will use state-of-the-art sorting technology with capacity to handle 3,000 pieces per hour.
The facility is also designed with separate parcel and freight processing, benefitting businesses who want to bundle both shipment types in a single network with a single interface – a unique feature of the FedEx Europe value proposition. Processing parcel and freight separately also creates operational efficiencies, including reducing forklift movements. The facility will offer a smoother customer experience for pick-ups and drop-offs.
“We’re excited about our expansion at Istanbul Airport, which gives FedEx an even stronger foothold at this strategic location and unlocks growth opportunities for customers trading intercontinentally.”, said Eser Sezek, Vice President Operations for Southeast Europe, Israel and Turkey for FedEx Express. “It also demonstrates our strong and continued commitment to our business and our customers in Türkiye, which goes from strength to strength as a major cargo and logistics player.”
“We are delighted to announce this collaboration with FedEx. The fact that FedEx has chosen to locate its new global air cargo facility on our site, reflects iGA Istanbul Airport’s position as a strategic super hub, not only for passengers, but also for the cargo and logistics sector”, commented Kadri Samsunlu, CEO of iGA Istanbul Airport. “We are confident that this new facility will further cement iGA Istanbul Airport’s vision and mission and commitment to being a global hub and gateway to the world.”